Cardiovascular System Exam

Cardiovascular System Exam Related

Review Cardiovascular System Exam related questions and content

What is the ability of cardiac cells to respond to an impulse by contracting?

  • A. Excitability
  • B. Contractility
  • C. Rhythmicity
  • D. Conductivity
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Excitability. Excitability refers to the ability of cardiac cells to respond to an impulse by generating an action potential and contracting. This is the fundamental property that allows the heart to beat. Contractility (B) is the ability of cardiac muscle to contract once stimulated, but it does not specifically refer to the response to an impulse. Rhythmicity (C) is the ability of cardiac cells to generate spontaneous electrical impulses, not directly related to responding to an impulse. Conductivity (D) is the ability of cardiac cells to transmit electrical impulses, not specifically related to the response of cells contracting.

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Which of the following is the result of central nervous system manifestations?

  • A. Congestive heart failure
  • B. Chorea
  • C. Valve damage
  • D. Pericarditis
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Chorea, a neurological condition, can be associated with rheumatic fever affecting the central nervous system.

A patient with heart failure has tachypnea, severe dyspnea, and a SpO2 of 84%. The nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of impaired gas exchange related to increased preload and mechanical failure. An appropriate nursing intervention for this diagnosis is

  • A. Assist the patient to cough and deep breath every 2 hours
  • B. Assess intake and output every 8 hours and weigh daily
  • C. Encourage to alternate rest and activity to reduce cardiac workload
  • D. Place the patient in a high Fowler's position with the legs horizontal
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A high fowler's position increases the thoracic capacity, improving ventilation, and sitting with the legs horizontal will decrease venous return.

The client on atorvastatin (Lipitor) should be advised to report which of the following symptoms?

  • A. Muscle pain
  • B. Headache
  • C. Nausea
  • D. Dizziness
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle pain. Atorvastatin can cause muscle pain as a side effect, which may progress to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. This requires immediate medical attention. Headache, nausea, and dizziness are less common side effects of atorvastatin and generally not as serious as muscle pain in this context. Reporting muscle pain promptly can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate management.

What is a condition characterized by episodes of severe, acute shortness of breath, often occurring at night?

  • A. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
  • B. Sleep apnea
  • C. Orthopnea
  • D. Dyspnea
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. This condition is characterized by sudden, severe shortness of breath at night. It can be caused by heart failure or other cardiac conditions. Sleep apnea (B) is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, not specifically related to acute shortness of breath. Orthopnea (C) is difficulty breathing while lying flat and is not specific to nighttime episodes. Dyspnea (D) is a general term for difficulty breathing and does not specifically refer to acute episodes at night.

The echocardiogram indicates a large thrombus in the left atrium of a patient admitted with heart failure. During the night, the patient complains of severe, sudden onset left foot pain. You note that no pulse is palpable in the left foot and that it is cold and pale. Which action should you take next?

  • A. Lower the patient's left foot below heart level.
  • B. Administer oxygen at 4 L/minute to the patient.
  • C. Notify the patient's physician about the assessment data.
  • D. Check the patient's vital signs and oximetry.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: This likely indicates embolic occlusion, requiring immediate physician intervention.

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