The nurse is evaluating a client's central venous pressure (CVP) also called right atrial pressure (RAP) readings that are trending upwards. Which nursing problem is supported by the pathophysiologic mechanism most likely causing the increases?
Decreased cardiac output.
Ineffective airway clearance.
Ineffective peripheral tissue perfusion.
Deficient fluid volume.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Decreased cardiac output. Central venous pressure (CVP), also called right atrial pressure (RAP), reflects right ventricular preload and overall fluid status. An increasing CVP indicates fluid overload or impaired right ventricular function, both of which can lead to decreased cardiac output. Conditions such as right heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or excessive fluid resuscitation can cause elevated CVP, reducing the heart’s ability to pump effectively and leading to poor systemic circulation.
B. Ineffective airway clearance. Airway clearance is not directly related to CVP measurements. While severe pulmonary conditions like ARDS or COPD can contribute to cardiac strain and right heart failure, the primary mechanism for rising CVP is cardiac dysfunction or fluid overload, not airway obstruction.
C. Ineffective peripheral tissue perfusion. Although decreased cardiac output can impair tissue perfusion, this choice is too broad. Increased CVP specifically reflects right-sided heart function and preload, making decreased cardiac output the more precise diagnosis related to the pathophysiologic mechanism.
D. Deficient fluid volume. A low CVP is associated with hypovolemia and fluid deficits, while an increasing CVP suggests fluid overload, heart failure, or venous congestion. Deficient fluid volume would cause a downward trend in CVP, not an increase.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["9"]
Explanation
Calculation:
Calculate the dopamine dose in mcg/min:
Dose = 2 mcg/kg/min
Weight = 60 kg
Dose per minute = 2 mcg/kg/min × 60 kg
= 120 mcg/min
Calculate the dopamine dose in mcg/hour:
Dose per hour = 120 mcg/min × 60 min/hour
= 7200 mcg/hour
Convert mcg to mg:
Dose per hour = 7200 mcg/hour / 1000 mcg/mg
= 7.2 mg/hour
Calculate the concentration of dopamine in the IV bag:
Dopamine: 400 mg
Solution: 500 mL
Concentration = 400 mg / 500 mL
= 0.8 mg/mL
Calculate the infusion rate in mL/hour:
Dose per hour: 7.2 mg/hour
Concentration: 0.8 mg/mL
Infusion rate = 7.2 mg/hour / 0.8 mg/mL
= 9 mL/hour
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Allow the family to touch and talk to the client. Family presence can provide emotional support for both the client and loved ones. Even though the client is sedated and has a low GCS, familiar voices and touch may reduce stress and anxiety. Allowing family interaction fosters comfort and connection during a critical time.
B. Reassess the client's vascular access. Maintaining secure and functional vascular access is essential for administering fluids, medications, and emergency interventions. Before transport, the nurse should confirm IV patency, ensure secure connections, and assess for signs of infiltration or malfunction. Trauma patients may require additional or larger bore IV access for fluid resuscitation or transfusion.
C. Assess neurological vital signs every 15 minutes. Frequent neurological assessments are crucial in head trauma patients with a low GCS to monitor for signs of worsening intracranial pressure, cerebral edema, or herniation. Changes in pupil response, motor function, or vital signs may indicate neurological deterioration requiring urgent intervention. Monitoring trends over time is necessary for early detection of complications.
D. Administer ophthalmic ointment. Clients with a low GCS often have impaired blinking, placing them at risk for corneal abrasions and dryness. Applying ophthalmic lubricant or artificial tears protects the cornea from injury and promotes eye health. Preventing exposure keratitis is essential in unconscious or sedated clients to avoid long-term ocular damage.
E. Apply soft bilateral wrist restraints for transport. Restraints are unnecessary because the client is sedated, intubated, and has a GCS of 6, meaning they cannot attempt self-extubation or interfere with care. Restraints should only be used if the client demonstrates a risk of harm. Standard transport protocols prioritize sedation and safety measures over restraints unless specifically required.
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