The nurse prepares a patient for insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter. Preprocedural teaching for this client will include which of the following statements?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) The catheter will provide information about your left ventricular function. Rationale: Insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter allows for the measurement of various hemodynamic parameters, including pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and cardiac output. Specifically, the catheter can provide valuable information about the left ventricular function by measuring the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, which reflects the left atrial pressure and indirectly the left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Monitoring left ventricular function is crucial in assessing cardiac performance and guiding treatment in patients with cardiovascular conditions. Explanation of Incorrect Options: A) The catheter will assist in directly monitoring your arterial pressure - While a pulmonary artery catheter can provide information about arterial pressure indirectly, its primary role is in assessing cardiac function rather than arterial pressure monitoring. B) The catheter will provide information about your cardiac output - This statement is partially correct, as the catheter can indeed provide information about cardiac output. However, the specific focus of a pulmonary artery catheter is more on assessing ventricular function rather than solely cardiac output. D) The catheter will provide information about your cardiac index - While the cardiac index can be calculated based on cardiac output and body surface area, the primary purpose of a pulmonary artery catheter is to assess hemodynamic parameters related to cardiac function, including left ventricular function. Educational Context: Understanding the indications and implications of pulmonary artery catheterization is essential for nurses caring for patients with cardiovascular disorders. Preprocedural teaching should include explaining the purpose of the catheter, the parameters it can measure, and the importance of monitoring left ventricular function in assessing cardiac status. By providing comprehensive education, nurses can empower patients to participate in their care and better understand the rationale behind specific interventions for their condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Cuff width appropriate for the diameter of the client's arm. This is the correct choice because using a cuff with the appropriate width for the diameter of the client's arm is crucial for obtaining an accurate blood pressure measurement. If the cuff is too narrow, it can lead to falsely elevated readings, while a cuff that is too wide can result in falsely low readings. Option A) is incorrect because while a cuff appropriate for continuous bedside monitoring is important for certain situations, the width of the cuff is essential for accurate BP assessment. Option B) is incorrect as well because while it is important to have a cuff suitable for assessing BP during position changes, the width of the cuff remains a critical factor in obtaining accurate measurements. Option D) is incorrect as a cuff width greater than the diameter of the client's arm can lead to inaccurate readings due to excess space between the cuff and the arm. In an educational context, it is vital for nurses to understand the significance of selecting the right cuff width for blood pressure assessment to ensure accurate readings and provide optimal patient care. Proper training and knowledge in this area can help prevent errors in BP measurement and contribute to better patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) To interfere with platelet aggregation. Administering non-narcotic analgesics to a client with thrombophlebitis helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with the condition. Non-narcotic analgesics, such as NSAIDs, work by inhibiting the aggregation of platelets, which play a crucial role in the formation of blood clots. By interfering with platelet aggregation, these medications help prevent the formation of clots in the affected vein, reducing the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Option A) To inhibit prostaglandin is incorrect because while prostaglandins are involved in the inflammatory response and pain sensation, they are not the primary target for non-narcotic analgesics in the context of thrombophlebitis. Option C) Release of endorphins is incorrect as endorphins are the body's natural painkillers and are not directly related to the mechanism of action of non-narcotic analgesics in this scenario. Option D) Release of cellular chemicals is a vague and non-specific option that does not directly address the rationale behind administering non-narcotic analgesics in thrombophlebitis. Educationally, understanding the rationale for using non-narcotic analgesics in thrombophlebitis is crucial for nurses to provide effective pain management and prevent complications associated with clot formation. By grasping the mechanism of action of these medications, nurses can make informed decisions and provide safe and holistic care to their patients with thrombophlebitis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for clients with aneurysms, monitoring for signs of hemorrhage or dissection is crucial for early detection and prompt intervention. Option C is the correct choice as it includes essential parameters to monitor. Monitoring blood pressure is essential as sudden changes can indicate an impending rupture. Hourly urine output is important to assess renal perfusion and function, which can be compromised in the presence of aortic aneurysms. Skin color changes can signify poor perfusion due to hemorrhage. Changes in level of consciousness can signal decreased cerebral perfusion. Option A is incorrect because swelling and heaviness of the legs are not specific to aneurysm complications. Option B is not directly related to aneurysm monitoring; chest pain may indicate other cardiac issues, and elevated LDL levels are more indicative of cardiovascular risk factors. Option D's symptoms of mild fever and swelling of extremities are nonspecific and not typically associated with aneurysm complications. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific parameters in clients with aneurysms enhances the nurse's ability to provide comprehensive care. By grasping the significance of each monitored parameter, nurses can promptly recognize critical changes, intervene timely, and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is option C: Nurse monitors postural changes in BP. This nursing intervention is crucial in preventing falls in clients, especially those with cardiovascular issues. Postural changes in blood pressure can indicate orthostatic hypotension, a common risk factor for falls in the elderly or individuals with cardiovascular conditions. By monitoring for changes in BP upon position changes, nurses can identify potential dizziness or lightheadedness that could lead to a fall. Option A is incorrect as monitoring for chest pain and elevated LDL levels is more related to cardiac health assessment rather than fall prevention. Option B is also incorrect because monitoring for swelling and heaviness of legs is more associated with peripheral vascular issues rather than fall prevention. Option D is incorrect as monitoring temperature for mild fever is unrelated to fall prevention in clients with cardiovascular concerns. Educationally, understanding the significance of postural changes in BP in relation to fall prevention is essential for nurses caring for clients with cardiovascular issues. It highlights the importance of thorough assessment and proactive interventions to maintain client safety and well-being. Nurses need to be vigilant in monitoring for signs that could potentially lead to adverse events like falls, especially in vulnerable populations.