A patient with dilated cardiomyopathy has new onset atrial fibrillation that has been unresponsive to drug therapy for several days. What topic should the nurse plan to include in patient teaching?
Permanent pacemakers
Emergency cardioversion
IV adenosine (Adenocard)
Anticoagulant therapy
The Correct Answer is D
When a patient with dilated cardiomyopathy develops new onset atrial fibrillation (AF) that has been unresponsive to drug therapy, the nurse should prioritize patient education about anticoagulant therapy. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart's atria due to the irregular and ineffective pumping of blood. These blood clots can potentially travel to other parts of the body, leading to serious complications such as stroke.
Anticoagulant therapy, also known as blood-thinning medication, is commonly prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent the formation of blood clots. The most common anticoagulant prescribed for AF is warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, or edoxaban. The nurse should educate the patient about the importance of taking the anticoagulant as prescribed and the need for regular monitoring of clotting times (INR for warfarin) to ensure the medication is effective and the dose is appropriate.
While other options listed in the choices may be relevant in specific situations, the priority in this case is to address the potential risk of stroke associated with atrial fibrillation and the importance of anticoagulant therapy to manage that risk effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A patient with chronic kidney disease is at risk for hyperphosphatemia. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys' ability to excrete phosphate is impaired, leading to elevated levels of phosphate in the blood. This can further lead to calcium-phosphate imbalances, bone problems, and other complications associated with kidney disease. Managing phosphate levels is an essential aspect of the treatment plan for patients with chronic kidney disease.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A 3 lb weight gain in a short period, especially overnight, is indicative of fluid overload in a client with end-stage kidney disease receiving hemodialysis. Hemodialysis is performed to remove excess fluid and waste products from the body. If the client is experiencing fluid overload, it means that their body is retaining more fluid than it should, and this can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema, heart failure, and other cardiovascular problems. The nurse should identify this finding as an indication of potential fluid overload and report it to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.
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