Afterload is most accurately described by which of the following?
Fluid volume status.
Atrial contraction (kick).
Resistance to blood flow.
Myocardial compliance.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Fluid volume status affects preload, not afterload.
Choice B reason: Atrial contraction contributes to filling of the ventricles, not to afterload.
Choice C reason: Afterload is the resistance left ventricular must overcome to circulate blood, which is accurately described as resistance to blood flow.
Choice D reason: Myocardial compliance refers to the elasticity of the heart muscle, which affects how the heart fills, not the resistance it must overcome to eject blood.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Respiratory Acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a high PCO2, which is not the case here.
Choice B reason: Respiratory Alkalosis would involve a high pH and a low PCO2, which is not consistent with the patient's PCO2 level.
Choice C reason: Metabolic Alkalosis is indicated by a high pH and a high HCO3, which matches the patient's blood gas values.
Choice D reason: Metabolic Acidosis would show a low pH and a low HCO3, which is the opposite of this patient's presentation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While blood pressure is important, hyperkalemia can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, making the pulse rate the first assessment to ensure the patient's immediate safety.
Choice B reason: Temperature is not directly affected by serum potassium levels and is not the priority in hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason: Respirations are less likely to be affected immediately by hyperkalemia compared to cardiac function.
Choice D reason: A high serum potassium level can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, so assessing the pulse rate is the most critical initial action.
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