In addition to assessing peripheral pulses and auscultating the patient’s heart and lung sounds, which action will be implemented by the nurse before a cardiac catheterization? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

The correct answer is

a. Increased respiratory rate

b. Increased heart rate

c. Increased blood pressure

Choice A: Increased Respiratory Rate

Fluid overload, also known as hypervolemia, can lead to an increased respiratory rate. This occurs because the excess fluid in the body can accumulate in the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion and edema. As a result, the body attempts to compensate by increasing the respiratory rate to improve oxygenation and remove excess carbon dioxide. Normal respiratory rate for adults is typically between 12-20 breaths per minute. An increased respiratory rate above this range can indicate fluid overload.

Choice B: Increased Heart Rate

An increased heart rate, or tachycardia, is another common finding in clients with fluid overload. The heart has to work harder to pump the excess fluid throughout the body, leading to an increased heart rate. This is a compensatory mechanism to maintain adequate cardiac output and tissue perfusion. Normal resting heart rate for adults is between 60-100 beats per minute. A heart rate above this range can be indicative of fluid overload.

Choice C: Increased Blood Pressure

Fluid overload can also result in increased blood pressure, or hypertension. The excess fluid in the bloodstream increases the volume of blood that the heart has to pump, leading to higher pressure within the arteries. This can strain the cardiovascular system and lead to complications if not managed properly. Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Blood pressure readings consistently above this range can suggest fluid overload.

Choice D: Increased Hematocrit

Increased hematocrit is not typically associated with fluid overload. Hematocrit is the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. In cases of fluid overload, the hematocrit level is usually decreased due to the dilutional effect of the excess fluid. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice E: Increased Temperature

Increased temperature is not a common finding in fluid overload. Fever or elevated body temperature is more commonly associated with infections or inflammatory conditions. Fluid overload does not typically cause an increase in body temperature. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice A Reason:

Suction equipment at the bedside.

Having suction equipment at the bedside is crucial for a client with status epilepticus. During a seizure, there is a risk of aspiration due to excessive salivation or vomiting. Suction equipment allows the nurse to quickly clear the airway, preventing aspiration and ensuring the client can breathe properly. This precaution is essential to maintain the client’s airway and prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

Choice B Reason:

Continuous sedation.

Continuous sedation is not typically a standard precaution for all clients with status epilepticus. While sedation may be necessary in some cases to control seizures, it is not a universal precaution. The primary goal is to stop the seizure activity and stabilize the client. Continuous sedation may be used in specific situations under close medical supervision, but it is not a general precaution that nurses implement for all clients with status epilepticus.

Choice C Reason:

Side rails padded.

Padding the side rails of the bed is an important precaution to prevent injury during a seizure. Clients experiencing seizures may have uncontrolled movements, which can lead to injury if they hit the hard surfaces of the bed. Padded side rails help to cushion these impacts, reducing the risk of bruises, cuts, or fractures. This precaution is essential for ensuring the client’s safety during seizure activity.

Choice D Reason:

Bed in low position.

Keeping the bed in a low position is another important safety measure. If a client with status epilepticus were to fall out of bed during a seizure, the lower height reduces the risk of serious injury. This precaution helps to minimize the impact of any potential falls, ensuring the client’s safety. It is a simple yet effective measure to prevent harm during seizure episodes.

Choice E Reason:

Intravenous (IV) access.

Establishing intravenous (IV) access is critical for a client with status epilepticus. IV access allows for the rapid administration of medications needed to control seizures and manage the client’s condition. In an emergency, quick access to the bloodstream is essential for delivering life-saving treatments. This precaution ensures that the medical team can promptly and effectively intervene to stop the seizure activity.