The client is on amiodarone. What is the most important side effect to monitor for?

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Cardiovascular System Exam Questions

Question 1 of 9

The client is on amiodarone. What is the most important side effect to monitor for?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulmonary toxicity. Amiodarone is known to cause potentially fatal pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis. Monitoring for pulmonary symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, and chest pain is crucial. Choice B (Thyroid dysfunction) is a common side effect but is typically less urgent. Choices C (Liver toxicity) and D (Renal dysfunction) are possible side effects of amiodarone, but pulmonary toxicity is the most important to monitor due to its severity and potential fatality.

Question 2 of 9

What type of stroke is caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ischemic stroke. This type of stroke is caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. This blockage can be due to a blood clot or plaque buildup. Ischemic strokes account for the majority of stroke cases. Incorrect choices: B: Hemorrhagic stroke - This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding in the brain. C: Transient ischemic attack - Also known as a mini-stroke, it is caused by a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often resolving on its own without permanent damage. D: Embolism - This refers to a condition where a blood clot or other foreign material travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel in the brain.

Question 3 of 9

What is the procedure to remove a sample of tissue from the lung for examination under a microscope?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lung biopsy. This procedure involves removing a sample of tissue from the lung for examination under a microscope. It is typically performed using a needle or during a surgical procedure. Bronchoscopy (B) involves examining the airways with a camera and is not used for tissue sampling. Thoracentesis (C) is the removal of fluid from the pleural space, not tissue from the lung. Lobectomy (D) is the surgical removal of a lobe of the lung, not specifically for obtaining a tissue sample.

Question 4 of 9

If Mr. Simpson begins to have pain that is worse with inspiration and relieved by sitting up, your assessment of his situation is that he has developed

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Pericarditis presents with positional pain and ECG changes.

Question 5 of 9

A patient with heart failure has tachypnea, severe dyspnea, and a SpO2 of 84%. The nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of impaired gas exchange related to increased preload and mechanical failure. An appropriate nursing intervention for this diagnosis is

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A high fowler's position increases the thoracic capacity, improving ventilation, and sitting with the legs horizontal will decrease venous return.

Question 6 of 9

Which chronic respiratory condition is characterized by the narrowing and inflammation of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to difficulty breathing. 2. It is a chronic respiratory condition with symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. 3. Asthma exacerbations can be triggered by various factors like allergens or exercise. 4. Treatment includes bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms. 5. COPD, bronchitis, and pneumonia involve different pathophysiological mechanisms and are not primarily characterized by airway narrowing. Summary: Asthma is the correct answer due to its specific features of airway inflammation and narrowing, distinct from COPD, bronchitis, and pneumonia, which have different underlying causes and symptoms.

Question 7 of 9

Which of the following nursing interventions should a nurse perform when caring for a client with congestive heart failure who has decreased cardiac output?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Digitalis therapy requires careful monitoring of heart rate to prevent toxicity and worsening cardiac output.

Question 8 of 9

What is the term for inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often leading to a persistent cough and mucus production?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bronchitis. Bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchial tubes, causing symptoms such as persistent cough and mucus production. This condition is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, irritants, or smoking. Asthma (B) is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and tightening, leading to difficulty breathing. Pneumonia (C) is an infection in the lungs, typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Cystic fibrosis (D) is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and other organs, leading to thick mucus production and recurrent infections. Therefore, the term that specifically describes inflammation of the bronchial tubes is bronchitis, making it the correct answer in this scenario.

Question 9 of 9

To assess whether Mr. Young's synchronous pacemaker is working properly, which statement do you need to remember about a synchronous pacemaker?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Demand pacemakers fire only when needed.

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