A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following a coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is an early indication of cardiac tamponade?
Widening pulse pressure
Coarse lung sounds
Muffled heart sounds
Decreased jugular vein distention
The Correct Answer is C
A. Widening pulse pressure. This is typically associated with conditions like increased intracranial pressure or severe aortic regurgitation, not cardiac tamponade. Tamponade usually results in narrowed pulse pressure.
B. Coarse lung sounds. These may indicate fluid overload or pulmonary congestion, but they are not specific to cardiac tamponade and occur later or in different conditions.
C. Muffled heart sounds. This is a classic early sign of cardiac tamponade, caused by fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac, which dampens heart sounds on auscultation. It is part of Beck’s triad (muffled heart sounds, hypotension, and jugular vein distention).
D. Decreased jugular vein distention. In cardiac tamponade, jugular vein distention increases due to impaired venous return to the heart. Decreased JVD would be an unexpected finding in this condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Explain long term consequences of the procedure to the child. This level of detail is not developmentally appropriate for a school-age child. It may increase anxiety without helping the child understand or cope with the immediate situation.
B. Remove the dressings while explaining the procedure to the child. While it is important to explain procedures, it should be done before starting to allow time for questions and emotional preparation. Explaining during may cause confusion or distraction.
C. Keep equipment out of the child's sight. Hiding equipment can actually increase fear and mistrust. School-age children benefit from open, age-appropriate communication and preparation about what to expect.
D. Allow the child to help remove the dressings. This is the most appropriate action. Allowing the child to participate in their care provides a sense of control, reduces anxiety, and helps build trust. It also aligns with the developmental need of school-age children to take on increasing responsibility and be involved in decision-making.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla: This is the correct method for taking an axillary temperature in infants, which is the recommended route due to safety and ease. The tip should be placed snugly in the center of the axilla and the infant's arm should be held firmly against their body to ensure accuracy.
B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe: This technique is used for otoscopic or tympanic temperature readings in children under 3, but tympanic readings are not preferred in young infants due to the small size and curvature of their ear canals, which can lead to inaccuracy.
C. Insert the oral thermometer in front of the infant's tongue: Oral temperature measurement is inappropriate for infants. They may not be able to keep the thermometer properly positioned, which increases the risk of inaccurate readings or injury.
D. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5 in) into the infant's rectum: Rectal temperature measurement is not routinely recommended unless specifically indicated, and the probe should only be inserted about 1.3 cm (0.5 in) for infants to avoid rectal perforation. The option listed suggests unsafe depth.
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