The standard policy on the cardiac unit states, “Notify the health care provider for mean arterial pressure (MAP) less than 70 mm Hg.”. Which patient should the nurse call the health care provider about?
Newly admitted patient with a BP of 150/87 mm Hg.
Patient with left ventricular failure who has a BP of 110/70 mm Hg.
Postoperative patient with a BP of 116/42 mm Hg.
Patient with a myocardial infarction who has a BP of 140/86 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is C
The patient with a blood pressure of 116/42 mm Hg has a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of approximately 67 mm Hg, which is less than the standard policy of 70 mm Hg. This could indicate inadequate blood flow to the vital organs, necessitating notification of the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A pleural friction rub, which is a grating sound caused by the inflammation of the pleural surfaces during respiration, is not typically associated with cardiac tamponade. It is more commonly associated with conditions affecting the lungs, such as pneumonia or pleurisy.
Choice B rationale
Distended neck veins are a classic sign of cardiac tamponade. This occurs due to increased pressure in the right atrium as a result of the impaired filling of the ventricles. This is a critical sign that should be reported immediately.
Choice C rationale
Widening pulse pressure (an increase in the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) is not typically associated with cardiac tamponade. In fact, cardiac tamponade more commonly presents with a narrowed pulse pressure.
Choice D rationale
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically a sign of cardiac tamponade. More commonly, tachycardia, or a fast heart rate, is observed in response to decreased cardiac output.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The apical pulse, also known as the point of maximal impulse (PMI), is located at the fifth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line. This is the location where the heartbeat is strongest and is the standard location for assessing the apical heart rate.
Choice B rationale
Placing the stethoscope directly over the heart on the sternum is not the standard method for assessing the apical heart rate. While the sternum is close to the heart, it is not the location where the heartbeat is strongest or most easily heard.
Choice C rationale
The right side at the midclavicular line, fourth intercostal space, is not the standard location for assessing the apical heart rate. The heart is located more towards the left side of the chest, and the apical pulse is typically not as easily heard on the right side.
Choice D rationale
The midaxillary line on the left side is not the standard location for assessing the apical heart rate. While this location is on the left side of the chest, it is not where the heartbeat is strongest or most easily heard.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
