A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having cardiac tamponade. Which of the following findings indicates the presence of pulsus paradoxus?
A decrease in systolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration
A decrease in heart rate greater than 10/min when lying down
An increase in diastolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration
An increase in heart rate greater than 20/min when standing
The Correct Answer is A
A. A decrease in systolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration: Pulsus paradoxus is an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration. Normally, there is a slight decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration due to increased intrathoracic pressure and decreased venous return to the heart. However, in conditions such as cardiac tamponade or severe asthma exacerbations, the decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration is more pronounced (>10 mm Hg), indicating impaired cardiac output and decreased left ventricular filling during inspiration.
B. A decrease in heart rate greater than 10/min when lying down: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus primarily refers to changes in systolic blood pressure during inspiration rather than alterations in heart rate when lying down.
C. An increase in diastolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus is characterized by an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, not changes in diastolic blood pressure.
D. An increase in heart rate greater than 20/min when standing: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus primarily refers to changes in systolic blood pressure during inspiration rather than alterations in heart rate when standing.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Stress can contribute to the development of atrial flutter, but it is not the highest risk factor compared to other options.
B. While electrolyte imbalances resulting from vomiting and diarrhea can predispose someone to arrhythmias, they are not as significant a risk factor for atrial flutter as other conditions.
C. A family history of atrial flutter may increase the likelihood of developing the condition, but it is not as significant a risk factor compared to other options.
D. A history of myocardial infarction and stent placement indicates underlying heart disease, which is a significant risk factor for developing atrial flutter. Cardiac events like myocardial infarction can lead to structural changes in the heart, such as scarring or remodeling, which can predispose individuals to atrial flutter. Therefore, this client is at the highest risk for developing atrial flutter among the options provided.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Severe myopia: Severe myopia refers to nearsightedness and is not typically associated with Meniere's disease. Myopia affects vision but is unrelated to the characteristic symptoms of Meniere's disease.
B. Vertigo: Vertigo is a hallmark symptom of Meniere's disease. It is characterized by a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and imbalance. Vertigo episodes in Meniere's disease can be severe and debilitating, significantly impacting the individual's quality of life.
C. Anosmia: Anosmia refers to a loss of sense of smell and is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is characterized by symptoms related to vestibular dysfunction, such as vertigo, rather than olfactory disturbances.
D. Photopsia: Photopsia refers to the perception of flashing lights or visual disturbances and is not a characteristic manifestation of Meniere's disease. Visual disturbances may occur in certain conditions affecting the eyes or visual pathways but are not typically associated with Meniere's disease, which primarily affects the inner ear and vestibular system.
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