Which of the following is a critical aspect to monitor in a patient immediately following a heart catheterization?
Observe for signs of infection at the catheter insertion site
Monitor the patient's cardiac rhythm and vital signs closely
Check the patient's blood glucose levels frequently.
Assess the patient's dietary intake and fluid balance.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. While infection monitoring is important, the risk immediately post-procedure is low; infection typically develops later, not immediately.
B. Immediately following a heart catheterization, there is a risk of arrhythmias, bleeding, or hemodynamic instability, making continuous monitoring of cardiac rhythm and vital signs critical to detect complications early.
C. Routine glucose monitoring is not specifically indicated unless the patient has diabetes; it is not a priority related to the catheterization procedure.
D. While ongoing hydration and diet are part of overall care, they are not immediate priorities in the immediate post-catheterization period.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic and does not typically affect calcium levels. Monitoring calcium is not a priority unless the client has another condition affecting calcium metabolism.
B. Spironolactone does not directly affect WBC counts. Monitoring WBCs is unrelated to this medication unless the client is taking additional drugs that impact bone marrow or immune function.
C. Spironolactone does not influence thyroid function, so assessing TSH or thyroid hormone levels is not necessary for routine follow-up.
D. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can increase serum potassium, potentially leading to hyperkalemia, a life-threatening condition. Monitoring potassium levels is essential to ensure safe use, particularly in clients with kidney impairment or those taking other potassium-increasing medications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This would indicate possible fluid retention or worsening heart function, not effective diuretic therapy. Effective diuretics usually help reduce fluid overload, which may lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
B. Rapid weight gain is a sign of fluid retention, which suggests diuretic therapy is not effective or the patient’s heart failure is worsening.
C. These findings indicate that excess fluid is being successfully removed from the body. Decreased swelling in the extremities and improved respiratory status reflect effective diuresis and improved cardiac function, which is the goal of therapy.
D. While these can occur due to electrolyte imbalances caused by diuretics, they are adverse effects rather than indicators of effectiveness.
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