The nurse understands that chest pain related to pericarditis is classically relieved by
gabapentin & acetaminophen
extended release opioids
sitting & leaning forward
supine with head of bed 15 degrees
The Correct Answer is C
A. gabapentin & acetaminophen: While acetaminophen may help with pain relief, gabapentin is primarily used for neuropathic pain and not effective for the inflammatory chest pain associated with pericarditis. These medications do not address the positional nature of pericardial pain.
B. extended release opioids: Opioids may provide general pain relief but are not the standard treatment for pericarditis-related pain. They do not address the inflammatory cause and carry risks of sedation and respiratory depression without improving cardiac inflammation.
C. sitting & leaning forward: Pericarditis pain is classically relieved by having the patient sit up and lean forward. This position reduces pressure on the pericardium and decreases pain by allowing the inflamed pericardial layers to separate slightly, reducing friction.
D. supine with head of bed 15 degrees: Lying flat or even slightly elevated can worsen pericarditis pain because it increases pressure on the inflamed pericardium. Patients often report increased discomfort in the supine position, making it less favorable for symptom relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ensure all tubing connections are tightened: Tight tubing connections are critical in preventing accidental disconnection, which can result in rapid blood loss and air embolism. Arterial lines are under high pressure, so securing all connections is a top priority to ensure patient safety and maintain line integrity.
B. Apply a pressure dressing to the insertion site: A transparent occlusive dressing not a pressure dressing is used for arterial lines to allow for site visualization and reduce the risk of infection. A pressure dressing could obscure signs of bleeding or compromise the catheter’s position.
C. Perform an Allen's test: Allen’s test is performed prior to radial arterial line insertion to assess collateral circulation via the ulnar artery for preventing ischemic complications if the radial artery is compromised. Performing the test afterward does not prevent complications and is no longer relevant once the catheter is placed.
D. Obtain a portable x-ray to confirm placement: X-rays are used to confirm the placement of central lines, not peripheral arterial lines like the radial line. Arterial line placement is confirmed by waveform analysis and blood return, not imaging.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sinus Bradycardia, with First Degree AV block, Rate 40: The rhythm strip shows regular P waves, each followed by a QRS complex, indicating a sinus rhythm. The PR interval is prolonged (greater than 0.20 seconds) but remains consistent across all beats. This confirms a first-degree AV block. The ventricular rate is approximately 40 bpm, consistent with sinus bradycardia.
B. Second Degree AV block – Mobitz I, Rate 40: Mobitz I (Wenckebach) is characterized by a progressively lengthening PR interval followed by a dropped QRS complex. This pattern is not seen here; the PR intervals are consistently prolonged.
C. Second Degree AV block – Mobitz II, Rate 40: Mobitz II involves intermittent dropped QRS complexes without progressive PR prolongation. In the strip, no QRS complexes are missing, ruling out Mobitz II.
D. Third Degree Heart Block, Rate 40: In complete heart block, there is no relationship between P waves and QRS complexes (AV dissociation). Here, the P waves are consistently followed by QRS complexes, indicating intact conduction, even if delayed. This therefore is not a third-degree block.
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