Which of the following is a common cause of cardiogenic shock?
Anaphylaxis
Hypovolemia
Pulmonary embolism
Myocardial infarction
The Correct Answer is D
D. Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is a common cause of cardiogenic shock. In myocardial infarction, part of the heart muscle becomes ischemic or necrotic due to occlusion of a coronary artery. This leads to impaired cardiac function and reduced cardiac output, resulting in cardiogenic shock. Prompt recognition and treatment of myocardial infarction are crucial to prevent or manage cardiogenic shock.
A. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to systemic vasodilation and distributive shock, but it is not a common cause of cardiogenic shock. In anaphylaxis, the primary mechanism of shock is typically related to widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability rather than impaired cardiac function.
B. Hypovolemic shock occurs due to a decrease in intravascular volume, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion. It is not a common cause of cardiogenic shock, as the underlying mechanism is different. In hypovolemic shock, the primary issue is the loss of circulating blood volume, whereas cardiogenic shock involves impaired cardiac function.
C. Pulmonary embolism can lead to acute right heart strain or failure, which may result in hemodynamic instability and shock. However, pulmonary embolism typically causes obstructive shock rather than cardiogenic shock. Obstructive shock occurs when blood flow is obstructed, such as by a pulmonary embolism, leading to reduced cardiac output.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are indicated in patients with severe respiratory failure who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation on their own. This intervention provides mechanical support to the patient's breathing by delivering positive pressure to the lungs via an endotracheal tube. Given the patient's respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min, low oxygen saturation (SpO2 of 78%), and increasing lethargy, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are the most appropriate interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
A. CPAP is a form of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation that helps keep the airways open and improves oxygenation. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, CPAP alone may not be sufficient to adequately support ventilation and oxygenation. CPAP is typically used in patients with milder forms of respiratory failure or as a step-down therapy from invasive mechanical ventilation.
C. Insertion of a mini-tracheostomy is not typically indicated in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest. While tracheostomy may be considered in certain cases for long-term ventilation or airway management, it is not the first-line intervention in an acute situation like this.
Additionally, frequent suctioning may not address the underlying cause of respiratory failure or improve oxygenation.
D. Administering 100% oxygen via a non-rebreather mask can help improve oxygenation temporarily. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, non-invasive oxygen therapy alone may not be sufficient to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are more definitive interventions to ensure adequate support for the patient's breathing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Assessing the patient's level of consciousness (LOC) is essential to determine their neurological status and assess for any signs of deterioration. Changes in LOC could indicate worsening sepsis, hypoperfusion, or other underlying issues that require immediate attention.
A. Administering amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic medication, is not the first action to take in this situation. While amiodarone may be used to manage certain arrhythmias, its use should be based on a thorough assessment and specific arrhythmia diagnosis. In this case, with only three seconds of PVCs followed by sinus tachycardia, immediate administration of amiodarone is not warranted.
B. Carotid massage is not indicated in this scenario. Carotid massage is typically used to slow down or terminate supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs), such as paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). However, it is contraindicated in patients with a history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), carotid artery disease, or recent myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, PVCs are not typically responsive to carotid massage.
C. Administering Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be appropriate in this situation. The patient's elevated temperature (101.1°F) suggests the presence of fever, which could contribute to the patient's tachycardia. Lowering the fever with acetaminophen may help reduce the heart rate and alleviate symptoms associated with fever, such as discomfort.
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