A nurse is assessing a client who has a new diagnosis of pericarditis. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of cardiac tamponade?
Fever
Atrial fibrillation
Paradoxical pulse
Pericardial friction rub
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Fever: While fever may occur in pericarditis due to inflammation or infection, it is not specific to cardiac tamponade. It reflects a systemic inflammatory response rather than a mechanical complication like fluid accumulation compressing the heart.
B. Atrial fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation may develop in some cardiac conditions, including pericarditis, but it is not a hallmark feature of cardiac tamponade. It does not directly reflect the hemodynamic compromise seen with tamponade.
C. Paradoxical pulse: Paradoxical pulse (pulsus paradoxus) is a key sign of cardiac tamponade. It refers to an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, caused by restricted ventricular filling from fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac, leading to reduced cardiac output.
D. Pericardial friction rub: A pericardial friction rub is a classic finding in acute pericarditis due to inflamed pericardial surfaces rubbing together, but it is not typically heard in cardiac tamponade, where fluid accumulation muffles heart sounds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "If I can keep my HbA1c less than 6.5% (less than 7%), I will be cured of diabetes.": Maintaining an HbA1c below 7% is important for managing type 1 diabetes and reducing complications, but it does not eliminate the disease. Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition due to permanent loss of insulin production.
B. "I will check my blood sugar level before exercising.": Blood glucose monitoring before physical activity is essential to prevent hypoglycemia. Exercise lowers blood sugar levels, and clients with type 1 diabetes must assess their levels beforehand to determine if carbohydrate intake or insulin adjustment is needed.
C. "I should have my eyes checked every 2 years.": Clients with type 1 diabetes should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam annually, not every two years, to monitor for diabetic retinopathy, a common microvascular complication.
D. "I should soak my feet daily in warm, soapy water.": Soaking the feet is not recommended because it can lead to skin maceration and increase the risk of infection. Gentle washing and thorough drying—especially between the toes—are safer practices for foot care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I can resume sexual intercourse in 48 hours.": Sexual intercourse should be avoided for approximately 3 to 4 weeks after a LEEP to allow proper healing of the cervix and reduce the risk of infection or bleeding. Resuming sexual activity too soon can disrupt tissue recovery.
B. "I can expect some heavy vaginal bleeding for 24 hours.": Heavy vaginal bleeding is not expected after a LEEP and should be reported promptly. Light spotting or a brownish discharge for a few days is normal, but significant bleeding can indicate complications.
C. "I can use tampons when my period comes in a week.": Clients are advised to avoid inserting anything into the vagina, including tampons, for several weeks post-procedure. This helps prevent infection and allows the cervical tissue to heal fully.
D. "I may have mild cramping for several hours.": Mild cramping for a few hours after the procedure is a common and expected response due to cervical manipulation. This symptom typically resolves on its own or with over-the-counter pain relief.
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