The nurse is caring for client who is diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Which medical Intervention should the nurse anticipate for this client for the complications of dysrhythmias?
Insertion of a cardioverter-defibrillator
A medication regimen that includes nitrates
Immediate cardiac transplantation
Insertion of a drug eluting stent
The Correct Answer is A
A) Insertion of a cardioverter-defibrillator:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the septum, which can lead to obstruction of blood flow and contribute to the development of arrhythmias. The most concerning arrhythmias in HCM include ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation, both of which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. A cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device that monitors the heart's rhythm and can deliver a shock to restore normal rhythm in the event of a life-threatening arrhythmia.
B) A medication regimen that includes nitrates:
Nitrates are vasodilators commonly used in the treatment of conditions like angina and heart failure. However, nitrates are generally avoided in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy because they can exacerbate the condition by decreasing preload and increasing the outflow tract obstruction due to the thickened heart muscle.
C) Immediate cardiac transplantation:
Cardiac transplantation is a treatment for end-stage heart failure, typically in patients who have not responded to medical or surgical treatments. While hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure, it is not the first line treatment for dysrhythmias or complications from the disease.
D) Insertion of a drug-eluting stent:
Drug-eluting stents are used to prevent restenosis (narrowing) of coronary arteries after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is not caused by coronary artery disease.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Fever and cardiac dysrhythmias:
Fever and cardiac dysrhythmias are not the hallmark signs of an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) following thrombolytic therapy. While fever can occur in the aftermath of a stroke, it is more commonly linked to infection or other complications. Cardiac dysrhythmias can occur in stroke patients due to autonomic dysfunction or other underlying conditions but are not specific to a hemorrhagic complication.
B) Decline in neurological status and elevated blood pressure:
A decline in neurological status (e.g., deterioration of consciousness, confusion, or focal deficits) and elevated blood pressure are classic signs of an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) following thrombolytic therapy, especially when tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is administered. tPA works by dissolving blood clots but increases the risk of bleeding. An ICH could present with sudden worsening neurological symptoms, such as decreased level of consciousness, weakness, or sensory loss, and elevated blood pressure is a compensatory response to the hemorrhage.
C) Abdominal distention and anorexia:
Abdominal distention and anorexia are not typical indicators of an intracerebral hemorrhage following tPA therapy. These symptoms may indicate other issues, such as gastrointestinal problems or metabolic imbalances, but they are not directly related to hemorrhagic complications following thrombolytic therapy for stroke.
D) Positive Coombs test and low urine output:
A positive Coombs test indicates the presence of antibodies against red blood cells, which may suggest hemolytic anemia or an autoimmune process. Low urine output can result from a variety of conditions, including kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or shock, but these are not specific indicators of an intracerebral hemorrhage following tPA.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Blood pressure 102/78:
This blood pressure is within an acceptable range, especially after resuscitation with fluids and blood products. While hypotension is a concern in hypovolemic shock, this blood pressure is stable and does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. Blood pressure monitoring is essential, but this finding is not as urgent as other options.
B) Pulse oximetry 95%:
A pulse oximetry reading of 95% is generally considered within normal limits for a patient who has undergone resuscitation and is stable. Oxygen saturation levels should be monitored, but this finding does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. Values below 90% would be more concerning, especially in trauma patients, but 95% is acceptable.
C) Crackles at bilateral bases:
The presence of crackles at the bilateral lung bases is a sign of pulmonary edema, which can occur as a result of fluid overload, especially after aggressive resuscitation with fluids like lactated Ringer's solution (LR) and blood products. In hypovolemic shock, rapid infusion of fluids can overwhelm the heart's ability to handle the volume, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs. This finding is concerning because it can indicate a shift from hypovolemic shock to a state of volume overload, which can worsen respiratory function and lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
D) Heart rate 105 beats per minute:
A heart rate of 105 beats per minute is slightly elevated but can be expected in a patient who has experienced trauma and is undergoing fluid resuscitation. Tachycardia is often seen in hypovolemic shock as the body compensates for decreased circulating volume. While monitoring the heart rate is important, this finding does not indicate an immediate life-threatening concern compared to crackles in the lungs, which suggest pulmonary edema.
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