The nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing an exercise stress test. Prior to reaching the target heart rate, the client develops chest pain. What is the nurse’s most appropriate interpretation of the chest pain?

The patient pain reflects the target heart rate has been set too high and needs to be lowered to finish the test.

The patient’s pain reflects pericarditis and the test should be stopped.

The patient’s pain reflects ischemia to the myocardium and the test should be stopped.

The patient’s pain reflects that supplemental oxygen is needed to finish the test.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. The patient pain reflects the target heart rate has been set too high and needs to be lowered to finish the test.

This option suggests that the chest pain is related to the target heart rate being set too high. However, chest pain during an exercise stress test is more commonly associated with myocardial ischemia rather than an inappropriate target heart rate. Lowering the target heart rate may not address the underlying issue of ischemia.

B. The patient’s pain reflects pericarditis and the test should be stopped.

Chest pain during an exercise stress test is more commonly associated with myocardial ischemia rather than pericarditis. Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, and its symptoms may include chest pain that is often sharp and pleuritic. However, during an exercise stress test, the focus is on detecting cardiovascular abnormalities, and chest pain is more concerning for ischemia.

C. The patient’s pain reflects ischemia to the myocardium and the test should be stopped.

This is the most appropriate interpretation. Chest pain during an exercise stress test may indicate insufficient oxygen supply to the myocardium (ischemia). Stopping the test allows for further evaluation and appropriate intervention.

D. The patient’s pain reflects that supplemental oxygen is needed to finish the test.

Chest pain during an exercise stress test is not typically addressed by providing supplemental oxygen. Stopping the test and evaluating the cause of the chest pain is a more appropriate action.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. The client with a history of a myocardial infarction who has a p wave before every QRS complex.

This may indicate a heart block, which requires attention. However, it's not an immediate life-threatening situation.

B. The client diagnosed with heart failure who has bilateral 2+ pitting pedal edema.

Bilateral pitting pedal edema is a sign of fluid overload, which is concerning and requires attention.

C. The client with sinus bradycardia (HR 56/min) that is reporting fatigue.

While bradycardia and fatigue are concerns, they might not be as urgent as the client with fluid overload.

D. The client diagnosed with coronary artery disease who is now reporting new onset of severe indigestion.

New onset of severe indigestion in a client with coronary artery disease raises concern for a potential cardiac event, and this should be addressed promptly.

A. Coronary artery disease (CAD) B. Arterial embolus C. Raynaud disease D. Intermittent claudication

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Coronary artery disease (CAD):

Coronary artery disease primarily affects the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle. Symptoms often include chest pain (angina) rather than pain in the lower extremities. The symptoms described in the scenario are not characteristic of CAD.

B. Arterial embolus:

An arterial embolus is a blood clot or debris that travels through the bloodstream and can block an artery. While it can cause decreased blood flow and pain, the presentation in the lower left leg and foot with relief of pain at rest is more suggestive of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or intermittent claudication rather than an acute arterial embolus.

C. Raynaud disease:

Raynaud's disease is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, usually triggered by cold or stress. It typically involves color changes (white, blue, red) in the fingers or toes. The symptoms described, including pain in the lower leg and foot during walking, are not typical of Raynaud's disease.

D. Intermittent claudication:

Intermittent claudication is a symptom associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It involves pain or cramping in the legs during physical activity, such as walking, due to reduced blood flow to the muscles. Rest typically relieves the pain. The observation of a hairless leg and slight edema suggests potential vascular compromise in the lower extremity, supporting the diagnosis of intermittent claudication.

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The nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing an exercise stress test. Prior to reaching the target heart rate, the client develops chest pain. What is the nurse’s most appropriate interpretation of the chest pain?

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