A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of angina pectoris. Which of the following information should the nurse include about anginal pain?

Choice A: Inspecting the electrode pads is an action that the nurse should take. The electrode pads are adhesive patches that atach to the skin and connect to the ECG machine. The nurse should inspect the electrode pads for expiration date, cleanliness, and stickiness, and replace them if necessary. The nurse should also check for any signs of skin irritation or allergy from the electrode pads.

Choice B: Instructing the client not to talk during the test is an action that the nurse should take. Talking during the test can interfere with the ECG recording and cause artifacts or false readings. The nurse should instruct the client to remain still and quiet during the test, and avoid any movements or activities that can affect the heart rate or rhythm, such as coughing, deep breathing, or shivering.

Choice C: Administering an analgesic prior to the procedure is not an action that the nurse should take. An analgesic is a pain reliever that can be given orally, intravenously, or topically. An analgesic is not necessary for an ECG, as it is a noninvasive and painless procedure. An analgesic can also alter the heart rate or rhythm and affect the ECG results. The nurse should only administer an analgesic if prescribed by the provider for another reason.

Choice D:It is more common to use alcohol swabs, and not water, to clean the skin as they are better at removing oils and ensuring good adhesion of the electrodes.

Choice E: Keeping the client NPO after midnight is not an action that the nurse should take. NPO means nothing by mouth, which is a restriction of food and fluids before certain procedures or surgeries. NPO is not required for an ECG, as it does not involve any anesthesia or sedation. The nurse should allow the client to eat and drink normally before and after the test, unless instructed otherwise by the provider.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because dabigatran does not affect the electrical activity of the heart or the conduction system. It does not slow down the ventricular response to the atrial impulses.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because dabigatran does not dissolve existing clots in the bloodstream. It only prevents new clots from forming.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because dabigatran reduces the risk of stroke in clients who have atrial fibrillation by preventing clot formation and reducing blood viscosity. Dabigatran is an anticoagulant medication that prevents the formation of blood clots in the heart and blood vessels. Atrial fibrillation is a condition where the atria beat irregularly and rapidly, which can cause blood to pool and clot in the heart chambers. These clots can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Dabigatran reduces the risk of stroke by preventing clot formation and reducing blood viscosity.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because dabigatran does not restore normal sinus rhythm in clients who have atrial fibrillation. It does not affect the heart rate or rhythm.