A nurse is caring for a client in the intensive care unit who suddenly becomes confused and agitated. The nurse recognizes these manifestations are likely related to a condition with which of the following characteristics?

A. Comply with compression therapy:

Compression therapy typically refers to the use of compression garments or devices to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the extremities, particularly in conditions such as venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis.

While compression therapy may be beneficial for certain circulatory disorders, it is not a standard treatment for cardiac tamponade.

Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, leading to increased pressure on the heart and impaired cardiac function.

Treatment for cardiac tamponade involves prompt recognition and intervention to relieve the pressure on the heart, such as pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage of the pericardial effusion.

B. Monitor wounds on lower extremities:

Monitoring wounds on the lower extremities is essential for assessing healing, preventing complications such as infection, and promoting overall wound care.

However, monitoring wounds on the lower extremities is not directly related to the management or monitoring of cardiac tamponade.

In cardiac tamponade, the focus of monitoring is on assessing signs and symptoms of cardiac compromise, such as hypotension, tachycardia, dyspnea, and pulsus paradoxus, rather than wound care.

C. Take antiplatelet medications as ordered:

Antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin or clopidogrel, are commonly prescribed to prevent platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of thrombotic events, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease or a history of myocardial infarction or stroke.

While antiplatelet medications may be part of the long-term management of certain cardiac conditions, they are not specific to the treatment or monitoring of cardiac tamponade.

The primary treatment for cardiac tamponade involves interventions to relieve the pressure on the heart and restore cardiac function, such as pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage of the pericardial effusion.

D. Monitor for gradual onset of symptoms:

Phase II of cardiac tamponade is characterized by a gradual onset of symptoms as the pressure within the pericardial sac increases, leading to impaired cardiac filling and decreased cardiac output.

Symptoms may include dyspnea, fatigue, orthopnea, tachycardia, and chest discomfort, which may develop gradually over time.

Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and intervention to prevent further deterioration and improve outcomes in patients with cardiac tamponade.

A. "Medications for Alzheimer's disease will help to increase my energy levels": This statement is not accurate. Medications for Alzheimer's disease, such as cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil, rivastigmine) and memantine, are not intended to increase energy levels. Their primary goal is to improve cognitive function and help manage symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease, but they do not directly affect energy levels.

B. "Medications for Alzheimer's disease will help slow the progression of my disease": This statement is correct. Medications used to treat Alzheimer's disease, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, are aimed at slowing the progression of cognitive decline and managing symptoms associated with the disease. While these medications cannot cure Alzheimer's disease, they can help improve cognitive function and quality of life for some individuals.

C. "Medications for Alzheimer's disease will help me remember what I forgot": This statement oversimplifies the effects of Alzheimer's medications. While these medications may help improve memory and cognition to some extent, they are not capable of restoring lost memories or reversing the effects of significant memory impairment caused by Alzheimer's disease.

D. "Medications for Alzheimer's disease will cure the disease": This statement is incorrect. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. Medications used to treat Alzheimer's, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression, but they do not cure the underlying condition.