Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

Review Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank related questions and content

A patient, age 46, is admitted for observation following an auto accident. He hit the steering wheel and has a chest contusion. Which of the following creates a pericardial friction rub?

  • A. Inflamed cardiac tricuspid and mitral valves
  • B. Decreased cardiac output c.Increased pulmonary pressures
  • C. Rubbing of pericardial and epicardial layers
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A pericardial friction rub is a harsh grating sound caused by the rubbing of the pericardial and epicardial layers of the heart. This rubbing sound can be heard with a stethoscope and is typically indicative of pericarditis, inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart). In the case of the patient with a chest contusion following an auto accident, the trauma could have led to pericardial inflammation and subsequent pericardial friction rub. The other choices do not directly result in the creation of a pericardial friction rub.