Cardiac Disorders NCLEX Questions Related

Review Cardiac Disorders NCLEX Questions related questions and content

The nurse assessing the client with pericardial effusion at 1600 notes the apical pulse is 72 and the BP is 138/94. At 1800, the client has neck vein distention, the apical pulse is 70, and the BP is 106/94. Which action would the nurse implement first?

  • A. Stay with the client and use a calm voice.
  • B. Notify the health-care provider immediately.
  • C. Place the client left lateral recumbent.
  • D. Administer morphine intravenous push slowly.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: JVD and hypotension (BP drop to 106/94) suggest cardiac tamponade; notifying the HCP (B) is urgent. Staying calm (A), lateral position (C), and morphine (D) are secondary.