ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam related questions and content

Prior to a cardiac catheterization, what is the most important action for the nurse to take?

  • A. Ensure that the client has been NPO for 6 hours before the procedure.
  • B. Administer pre-procedure medications as ordered.
  • C. Verify that informed consent has been obtained.
  • D. Assess the client for any allergies, especially to iodine or shellfish.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assess the client for any allergies, especially to iodine or shellfish. This is crucial because contrast dye containing iodine is commonly used during cardiac catheterization, and a client with allergies to iodine or shellfish can have a severe allergic reaction. It is essential to identify allergies beforehand to prevent any potential adverse reactions during the procedure.

A: Ensuring NPO status is important for some procedures, but assessing for allergies is more critical to prevent life-threatening reactions.
B: Administering pre-procedure medications is important, but assessing for allergies takes precedence to avoid allergic reactions.
C: While obtaining informed consent is necessary, assessing for allergies is a crucial safety measure to prevent allergic reactions during the procedure.