A patient is having a cardiac evaluation to assess for possible heart failure and valvular disease. Which study best identifies heart function and measures the size of the cardiac chambers?
Electrophysiology study
12-lead electrocardiogram
Cardiac catheterization
Echocardiogram
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. An electrophysiology study assesses the electrical activity of the heart but does not evaluate heart function or chamber size.
B. A 12-lead electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart but does not provide detailed information on heart function or chamber size.
C. Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure used to assess coronary artery disease and other structural heart conditions but is not the primary study for evaluating heart function and chamber size.
D. An echocardiogram is a non-invasive ultrasound that provides detailed images of the heart, including its function, chamber size, and valve function, making it the best choice for this purpose.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Numbness and tingling in the left hand could indicate compromised blood flow or nerve damage, potentially due to the arterial line, requiring immediate assessment and intervention.
B. Slight bloody drainage is a common finding and typically does not require immediate action.
C. A dressing beginning to lift should be addressed to maintain a sterile environment but is not an emergency.
D. Slight redness at the insertion site may indicate mild irritation or early signs of infection, but it does not require immediate intervention compared to the potential vascular or nerve compromise suggested by numbness and tingling.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Documentation of waveform values is important but does not directly enhance patient safety during monitoring.
B. Limiting the pressure tubing length can help maintain accuracy, but it is not the primary safety measure.
C. Zero referencing is crucial for accurate readings, but it must be done in conjunction with ensuring alarms are active.
D. Ensuring that alarm limits are turned on and appropriately set is the best safety measure to immediately alert the nurse to any critical changes in the patient's status.