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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This is a surgical procedure for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, not atrial fibrillation. It is unrelated to managing AF or symptomatic palpitations.
B. This procedure is used for continuous drainage of pericardial effusions or cardiac tamponade, not for treating atrial fibrillation.
C. This is the treatment of choice for symptomatic atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response when medication is insufficient or immediate rhythm control is needed. The procedure delivers a controlled electrical shock synchronized with the QRS complex to restore normal sinus rhythm safely.
D. This is used to remove excess fluid from the pericardial sac in cases of pericardial effusion or tamponade, not for atrial fibrillation management.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Oxygen is administered during the initial acute phase if the client is hypoxic, to improve myocardial oxygenation, but it does not directly manage pain or anxiety once stabilized.
B. Nitroglycerin is used to relieve chest pain and reduce myocardial workload, primarily in the acute phase of MI. Its use after stabilization is for ongoing ischemia, not specifically for anxiety or persistent pain.
C. Aspirin is an antiplatelet therapy that prevents further clot formation and is continued long-term for MI management, but it does not address acute pain or anxiety.
D. Morphine is indicated after the initial acute phase to manage persistent chest pain and anxiety. It works by reducing myocardial oxygen demand through vasodilation and providing analgesia and sedation, making it appropriate for pain and anxiety management post-acute MI.
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.
