A nurse is explaining the diagnostic tests for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to a client. Which test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing DVT?
Venous Doppler ultrasound.
D-dimer blood test.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Contrast venography.
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because venous Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test commonly used to diagnose DVT. However, it is not considered the gold standard due to potential limitations in visualizing small clots and deep veins.
B) This choice is incorrect because the D-dimer blood test is a screening test used to detect the presence of blood clot breakdown products. While it can help rule out DVT when negative, it is not the definitive diagnostic test.
C) This choice is incorrect because magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a sensitive imaging modality but is not considered the gold standard for diagnosing DVT. MRI may be used in specific cases, but contrast venography remains the gold standard.
D) This choice is correct. Contrast venography involves injecting contrast dye into the veins and taking X-ray images to visualize the blood flow and detect any clots. It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing DVT, as it provides direct visualization of the clot and the extent of its involvement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because swelling and redness in the affected leg are common clinical manifestations of DVT but are not specific to detecting potential complications like a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should focus on respiratory and cardiovascular assessments for this purpose.
B) This choice is incorrect because elevated body temperature and chills may indicate an infection but are not specific to detecting potential complications of DVT, such as a pulmonary embolism.
C) This choice is correct. Pleuritic chest pain (sharp chest pain worsened by deep breathing or coughing) and hemoptysis (coughing up blood) are classic clinical manifestations of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening complication of DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because abdominal pain and distension are not typical signs of a pulmonary embolism. Abdominal pain may be related to other causes, such as gastrointestinal issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis assesses oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, primarily used for respiratory and acid-base evaluations, not for confirming DVT.
B) This choice is correct. The D-dimer blood test is a screening test used to detect the presence of blood clot breakdown products in the blood. Elevated levels of D-dimer may suggest the presence of a blood clot, prompting further diagnostic testing for DVT.
C) This choice is incorrect because an electrocardiogram (ECG) primarily assesses the electrical activity of the heart and is not specific to confirming DVT. It may be useful to assess cardiac function in individuals with suspected pulmonary embolism.
D) This choice is incorrect because a chest X-ray is not used to confirm DVT. It is helpful in assessing the lungs and heart, particularly for detecting potential complications of DVT like a pulmonary embolism, but it does not directly diagnose DVT.
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.