A patient with dilated cardiomyopathy has new onset atrial fibrillation that has been unresponsive to drug therapy for several days. What topic should the nurse plan to include in patient teaching?
Permanent pacemakers
Emergency cardioversion
IV adenosine (Adenocard)
Anticoagulant therapy
The Correct Answer is D
When a patient with dilated cardiomyopathy develops new onset atrial fibrillation (AF) that has been unresponsive to drug therapy, the nurse should prioritize patient education about anticoagulant therapy. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart's atria due to the irregular and ineffective pumping of blood. These blood clots can potentially travel to other parts of the body, leading to serious complications such as stroke.
Anticoagulant therapy, also known as blood-thinning medication, is commonly prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent the formation of blood clots. The most common anticoagulant prescribed for AF is warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, or edoxaban. The nurse should educate the patient about the importance of taking the anticoagulant as prescribed and the need for regular monitoring of clotting times (INR for warfarin) to ensure the medication is effective and the dose is appropriate.
While other options listed in the choices may be relevant in specific situations, the priority in this case is to address the potential risk of stroke associated with atrial fibrillation and the importance of anticoagulant therapy to manage that risk effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition where the kidneys are damaged or unable to filter blood effectively over time, leading to a gradual loss of kidney function. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing CKD, and among them, diabetes and hypertension are the most common.
Diabetes is a significant risk factor for developing CKD. It can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood properly. Native Americans, along with other racial and ethnic minorities, are at a higher risk of developing diabetes compared to the general population.
While hypertension (high blood pressure) is also a risk factor for CKD, diabetes carries a higher risk. However, it's important to note that hypertension is often a comorbidity associated with CKD and can further worsen kidney function when present.
The other options listed (a 50-year-old white female with hypertension, a 40-year-old Hispanic female with cardiovascular disease, and a 28-year-old African American female with a urinary tract infection) are also at risk for CKD, but the 61-year-old Native American male with diabetes is at the highest risk based on the information provided. All patients should be educated about preventive measures to protect their kidney health, but special attention should be given to individuals with diabetes due to its significant impact on kidney function.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
ST-segment elevation on an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a critical finding and should be reported rapidly to the health care provider. It is a hallmark ECG change seen in myocardial infarction (heart attack). When there is myocardial ischemia or injury (such as in a heart attack), the ST segment
elevates above the baseline in the affected leads of the ECG. This elevation indicates that there is an ongoing loss of oxygen and blood supply to a part of the heart muscle.
ST-segment elevation is a medical emergency because it suggests acute coronary syndrome (ACS), which can rapidly progress to a myocardial infarction if not promptly treated. Immediate intervention is needed to restore blood flow to the affected coronary artery and prevent further damage to the heart muscle.
The other options listed (A) First-degree atrioventricular block, (B) Inverted P wave, and (C) Sinus tachycardia, while significant in some situations, do not have the same urgency as ST-segment elevation in the context of chest pain. They may require medical attention, but they do not typically indicate an acute myocardial infarction or an immediate life-threatening condition. ST-segment elevation is a critical finding that requires rapid intervention to preserve heart muscle function and prevent complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today