Which of the following options gives a nurse the most accurate diagnostic picture of a cardiac issue?
Echocardiogram
Cardiac Catheterization
Chest X-Ray (CXR)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
The Correct Answer is A
B. Cardiac Catheterization.
Cardiac Catheterization (B): Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure that involves threading a catheter into the heart's chambers and major blood vessels. It allows direct visualization of the coronary arteries, measurement of blood pressure within the heart, assessment of blood flow, and the ability to perform interventions such as angioplasty or stent placement. Cardiac catheterization is considered the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease, evaluating heart valve function, and detecting congenital heart abnormalities.
Explanation:
A. Echocardiogram (A): An echocardiogram is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It is excellent for assessing the structure and function of the heart, including heart valve function and blood flow patterns. While it is a valuable tool for cardiac assessment, it may not provide the level of detail and direct visualization that cardiac catheterization offers.
C. Chest X-Ray (CXR) (C): A chest X-ray can provide information about the size and shape of the heart and detect certain abnormalities such as an enlarged heart or fluid in the lungs. However, it may not offer the level of detail required to diagnose specific cardiac issues accurately.
D. Electrocardiogram (ECG) (D): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and is useful for diagnosing arrhythmias and certain conduction abnormalities. While it provides essential information about cardiac rhythm, it does not directly visualize the structural aspects of the heart or blood flow.
In summary, while each of these diagnostic tools plays a crucial role in assessing cardiac issues, cardiac catheterization is the most accurate and comprehensive option for diagnosing a wide range of cardiac conditions due to its direct visualization and intervention capabilities. However, the choice of diagnostic test should always be made based on the patient's specific clinical presentation and the suspected cardiac problem.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart failure and certain heart rhythm disorders. However, it has a narrow therapeutic window, and digoxin toxicity can occur if the drug accumulates in the body to excessive levels. One of the hallmark signs of digoxin toxicity is severe bradycardia, which means an abnormally slow heart rate. Bradycardia can result from the effects of digoxin on the electrical conduction system of the heart, leading to an irregular or slowed heartbeat.
While other symptoms can occur in digoxin toxicity, such as gastrointestinal symptoms (like nausea and vomiting), neurological symptoms (like confusion and visual disturbances), and even respiratory distress in severe cases, extreme bradycardia is a key and often life-threatening sign that requires immediate medical attention.
Constipation (A) and headache (C) can also occur as side effects of digoxin but are less specific to digoxin toxicity and may not be considered cardinal manifestations.
Respiratory distress (B) may occur if the bradycardia leads to inadequate cardiac output, causing pulmonary congestion, but it is not a primary or cardinal symptom of digoxin toxicity. Extreme bradycardia is typically the more immediate and prominent concern.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
To calculate the safest dose of amoxicillin for Archie based on his weight of 44 pounds (lbs) and the recommended dose of 50 mg/kg/day in two divided doses, you should follow these steps:
Step 1: Convert Archie's weight from pounds (lbs) to kilograms (kg).
1 pound = 0.453592 kilograms
44 lbs * 0.453592 kg/lb = 19.504 kg (rounded to the nearest tenth)
Step 2: Calculate the total daily dose based on his weight.
Total daily dose = Weight (kg) * Dose (mg/kg/day)
Total daily dose = 19.504 kg * 50 mg/kg/day = 975.2 mg/day
Step 3: Divide the total daily dose into two equal doses since it's to be administered in two divided doses.
Each dose = Total daily dose / 2
Each dose = 975.2 mg/day / 2 = 487.6 mg/dose
Since it's not possible to administer a fraction of a milligram accurately, you would round the dose to the nearest available dosage strength.
Therefore, the safest dose for Archie would be:
500 mg
So, Archie should take 500 mg of amoxicillin before his dentist appointment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.