Nokea
Which condition is characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries that supply blood to the heart by plaque?
- A. Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- B. Atherosclerosis
- C. Peripheral artery disease
- D. Congestive heart failure
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries supplying blood to the heart by plaque buildup. Plaque consists of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances that can restrict blood flow to the heart, leading to various heart-related issues. Atherosclerosis (B) is the process of plaque buildup in arteries but is not specific to the heart. Peripheral artery disease (C) involves plaque buildup in arteries outside the heart. Congestive heart failure (D) is a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, not directly related to plaque buildup in coronary arteries.
You may also like to solve these questions
A patient who underwent a percutaneous, transluminal coronary angioplasty four weeks ago has a subsequent ejection fraction of 30%. The patient returns for a follow-up visit. Examination reveals lungs that are clear on auscultation and slight pedal edema. The patient's medications are digoxin (Lanoxin), furosemide (Lasix), enalapril maleate (Vasotec), and aspirin. The patient reports a 5 lb (2.27 kg) weight gain over the past two days. The cardiac-vascular nurse's initial action is to:
- A. document the weight and reassess the patient at the next session.
- B. inquire about the patient's medication compliance.
- C. notify the patient's physician.
- D. review the patient's most recent nuclear scan.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Weight gain and pedal edema suggest fluid retention, so assessing medication compliance is essential.
What is a condition where the heart beats too fast, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively?
- A. Tachycardia
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Arrhythmia
- D. Ventricular fibrillation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tachycardia. Tachycardia is a condition where the heart beats too fast, resulting in reduced effectiveness in pumping blood. This occurs when the heart rate exceeds the normal range, impacting the heart's ability to fill and empty properly. Bradycardia (B) is the opposite, where the heart beats too slowly. Arrhythmia (C) refers to an irregular heartbeat pattern, which may or may not involve a fast heart rate. Ventricular fibrillation (D) is a life-threatening arrhythmia where the heart quivers instead of pumping effectively.
A patient recently had a cardiac catheterization via right-radial approach and now has a compression device in place. The patient reports numbness and pain in the right hand. The cardiac-vascular nurse notes a diminished pulse, with a cool and cyanotic hand. The nurse:
- A. calls the physician.
- B. performs an Allen test.
- C. reduces the pressure on the puncture site.
- D. uses the Doppler ultrasound to assess for pulse signals.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Reducing pressure on the puncture site is necessary to restore blood flow to the hand.
What is a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops beating?
- A. Cardiac arrest
- B. Myocardial infarction
- C. Heart failure
- D. Atrial fibrillation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency where the heart stops beating suddenly. This leads to the cessation of blood flow to vital organs, causing loss of consciousness and death if not treated immediately with CPR and defibrillation. Myocardial infarction (B) is a heart attack where blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, leading to tissue damage. Heart failure (C) is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. Atrial fibrillation (D) is an irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke but is not the same as cardiac arrest.
The nurse is caring for a client on enalapril (Vasotec). What is the most important side effect to monitor?
- A. Cough
- B. Hyperkalemia
- C. Hypotension
- D. Dizziness
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cough. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor that can cause a dry, persistent cough as a common side effect. It is important to monitor for this because it can indicate a potentially serious adverse reaction called angioedema. Hyperkalemia (B) is a possible side effect of enalapril but is typically not as urgent to monitor as cough. Hypotension (C) is a common side effect but is usually monitored during the initial dose titration. Dizziness (D) is a less common side effect and is often transient. Monitoring for cough is crucial to detect and manage any potential angioedema promptly.