The nurse is providing discharge education to a client who recently have insertion of a pacemaker/ICD. Which statement by the client should require further follow up by the nurse?
"I should never place items that generate magnetic fields over the pacemaker/ICD"
"I should not play contact sports or lift heavy objects for two months"
“I should inform dentists and health care providers about the pacemaker/ICD"
“I should never allow metal detectors at the airport or the use of household appliances"
The Correct Answer is D
While it is generally recommended to avoid close or prolonged exposure to strong magnetic fields, such as those generated by MRI machines, placing items that generate magnetic fields over the pacemaker/ICD, such as cell phones or certain medical devices, does not typically pose a risk. Therefore, it would be important for the nurse to clarify the client's understanding and provide accurate information about the precautions related to magnetic fields.
The other statements made by the client are generally correct and align with the typical recommendations for individuals with pacemakers/ICDs:
Avoiding contact sports or lifting heavy objects for a specified period of time after pacemaker/ICD insertion is usually advised to allow for proper healing and to reduce the risk of lead dislodgment or damage to the device.
Informing dentists and healthcare providers about the presence of a pacemaker/ICD is important so that they can take appropriate precautions during procedures or treatments that may involve electromagnetic interference or interfere with the device's functioning.
While it is generally advised to avoid close proximity to strong magnetic fields, such as those in airports or certain household appliances, it does not necessarily mean completely avoiding them. The nurse can clarify the specific recommendations regarding metal detectors at airports and the safe use of household appliances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The best response by the nurse would be to explain that no food or drink is allowed for 4 hours before the stress test.
The reason for this restriction is that consuming food or drink can affect the accuracy of the cardiac stress test results. Eating or drinking can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially altering the test's interpretation. It is important for the client to have an empty stomach to ensure accurate test results.
Let's review the other options and explain why they are not the best responses:
Asking the client's visitor to bring some coffee from the cafeteria for the client: This option goes against the restriction of no food or drink before the stress test. It is important to adhere to the guidelines provided to ensure accurate test results.
Making up a small breakfast tray from what is available on the unit: Similarly, providing breakfast to the client goes against the restriction of no food before the stress test. The client should have an empty stomach for the test.
Offering hot tea or coffee only: While hot tea or coffee might be tempting for the client, it still violates the requirement of no food or drink before the stress test. The client should only be allowed to consume water during the fasting period.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The most important finding to report to the health care provider would be the serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq. This is an extremely low potassium level (normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), which can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition called hypokalemia. Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss in the urine, and a low potassium level can lead to serious cardiac and muscle abnormalities. It is crucial to report this finding promptly to the health care provider for appropriate intervention and monitoring.
Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dL: While an elevated blood glucose level can be a concern, especially for individuals with diabetes, it is not the most critical finding in this situation. The client's primary concern is hypertension, and the administration of IV furosemide is aimed at managing blood pressure. The elevated blood glucose level should still be addressed and monitored, but it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.
Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg: Orthostatic hypotension refers to a significant decrease in blood pressure upon standing up. While it is important to assess and manage orthostatic changes, a decrease of 12 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure alone may not be considered clinically significant. It could be a normal response for some individuals. However, if the client experiences symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing, further evaluation may be necessary. Nonetheless, it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.
Current blood pressure reading of 166/94 mm Hg: While this blood pressure reading indicates hypertension, it is not the most critical finding to report in this situation. The nurse is preparing to administer furosemide (Lasix), which is a medication commonly used to treat hypertension. It is expected that the blood pressure will be high before administering the medication. The goal is to monitor the blood pressure after the administration to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
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