The nurse is reviewing the results of the client's echocardiogram and notes that the ejection fraction is 35%. The nurse anticipates that which of the following medications will be ordered to increase the client's cardiac output?
Heparin
Adenosine
Warfarin
Digoxin
The Correct Answer is D
A. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication used primarily to prevent and treat blood clots. It does not directly affect cardiac output or ejection fraction.
B. Adenosine is used to treat supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) by slowing conduction through the AV node. It does not directly affect cardiac output or ejection fraction in the context of heart failure.
C. Warfarin is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. Similar to heparin, it does not affect cardiac output or ejection fraction.
D. Digoxin is a medication that increases the strength and efficiency of heart contractions (positive inotropic effect) and slows the heart rate (negative chronotropic effect). It is commonly used in heart failure to improve symptoms and increase cardiac output by enhancing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The soles of the feet are not typically assessed for cyanosis because they are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is best evaluated in areas where mucous membranes are visible.
B. Similar to the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is not typically visible on the palms unless there are severe systemic circulation issues.
C. The oral mucosa (inside the mouth) is a reliable area to assess for central cyanosis. The nurse can inspect the lips, tongue, and buccal mucosa for a bluish discoloration, which indicates decreased arterial oxygen saturation.
D. The nail beds are also a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. The nurse can assess the color of the nail beds and look for bluish discoloration, which can be more apparent in darker-skinned individuals compared to the lips and oral mucosa.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Atrial flutter typically presents with a regular atrial rate (usually around 250-350 beats per minute) and a characteristic "sawtooth" pattern of flutter waves (F-waves) on the ECG. This condition would not present with irregular ventricular rates and is less likely based on the ECG findings described.
B. Atrial fibrillation is identified by an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of P-waves on the ECG, which is replaced by erratic activity.
C. Unstable angina presents with chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, usually related to atherosclerotic plaque rupture or erosion. It does not cause the ECG findings described (absence of P-waves and irregular ventricular rate).
D. PACs are early atrial depolarizations that can cause palpitations but do not typically result in the absence of P-waves or irregular ventricular rates as described in the scenario.
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