Mr. Smith is scheduled for an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) procedure to treat dysrhythmia.
What is the primary function of this procedure?
To block impulse transmission to the AV node.
To assume the function of the SA node.
To trigger electrical impulses to the heart.
To increase ventricular conduction.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Blocking impulse transmission to the AV node is not the primary function of an ICD. This is typically achieved through medications such as beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, or through a procedure called AV node ablation.
While ICDs can sometimes have a secondary effect of slowing AV node conduction, their primary purpose is to actively monitor heart rhythm and deliver electrical shocks when necessary to restore normal rhythm.
Choice B rationale:
Assuming the function of the SA node is not the primary function of an ICD. The SA node, located in the right atrium, is the natural pacemaker of the heart, responsible for initiating electrical impulses that trigger each heartbeat.
While ICDs can sometimes pace the heart if the SA node is not functioning properly, their primary purpose is to intervene when life-threatening arrhythmias occur, rather than to continuously regulate heart rate.
Choice C rationale:
Triggering electrical impulses to the heart is the core function of an ICD. It continuously monitors heart rhythm and can deliver electrical shocks to restore normal rhythm when it detects potentially dangerous arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation.
These shocks are designed to interrupt chaotic electrical activity in the heart and allow the natural pacemaker to regain control, preventing cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac death.
Choice D rationale:
Increasing ventricular conduction is not the primary function of an ICD. In fact, in some cases, ICDs may actually slow down ventricular conduction to prevent certain types of arrhythmias.
Medications or procedures such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are specifically designed to improve ventricular conduction in patients with heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a blood clot that forms in a vein, usually in the legs. It can be a serious condition, as the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).
Crossing the legs at the knees can impede blood flow in the veins of the legs, increasing the risk of VTE. This is because it compresses the veins, slowing the flow of blood and making it more likely for clots to form.
The patient's statement that they will make sure not to cross their legs when resting in bed demonstrates that they understand this important risk factor for VTE and are taking steps to prevent it.
Choice B rationale:
While keeping pillows under the knees can help to improve circulation, it is not a specific measure to prevent VTE. It is more important to avoid crossing the legs and to engage in regular movement and activity to promote blood flow.
Choice C rationale:
Compression stockings can help to reduce the risk of VTE by compressing the veins in the legs and promoting blood flow. However, they should be worn as instructed by a healthcare professional, and not only if the patient experiences pain in their calves. Pain in the calves can be a symptom of VTE, so it is important to seek medical attention if it occurs.
Choice D rationale:
Bed rest is actually a risk factor for VTE, as it can lead to decreased blood flow in the legs. It is important to get up and move around as soon as possible after surgery, even if it is just for short periods of time. This will help to promote blood flow and reduce the risk of VTE.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Incorrect. Scarring on the atria is not an indication of procedure failure in the context of the maze procedure. In fact, it's a desired outcome.
Pacemaker implantation: Not routinely indicated after the maze procedure, even if scarring is present. Pacemakers are primarily used to treat bradyarrhythmias (slow heart rhythms), not atrial fibrillation.
Choice B rationale:
Incorrect. Repeating the maze procedure is generally not considered unless there's clear evidence of recurrent atrial fibrillation despite initial scarring. Scarring formation takes time, and premature repeat procedures are often not necessary.
Consulting the care team: While collaboration is essential, consultation specifically for repeating the procedure based solely on scarring would be premature.
Choice C rationale:
Correct. The maze procedure intentionally creates scar tissue within the atria to block abnormal electrical signals that cause atrial fibrillation. Scarring disrupts the pathways that allow these signals to circulate and trigger fibrillation. Therefore, the presence of scarring is a positive finding that suggests the procedure has achieved its intended effect.
Choice D rationale:
Incorrect. Further diagnostic testing is not routinely indicated solely based on the presence of scarring after the maze procedure. Additional testing might be considered if the patient experiences recurrent atrial fibrillation or other concerning symptoms, but scarring itself does not necessitate immediate further investigation.
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