What test measures the oxygen level in the blood, often used to monitor patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions?
- A. Pulse oximetry
- B. Arterial blood gas (ABG)
- C. Echocardiogram
- D. Chest X-ray
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulse oximetry. This test measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood by using a device called a pulse oximeter, which is commonly placed on a patient's finger. Pulse oximetry is non-invasive, quick, and reliable in assessing oxygen levels. Arterial blood gas (B) measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels directly from arterial blood samples, but it is more invasive and requires a blood draw. Echocardiogram (C) is an ultrasound test that evaluates the heart's structure and function, not specifically oxygen levels. Chest X-ray (D) provides images of the lungs and chest area but does not directly measure oxygen levels in the blood.
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The nurse is caring for a client on amiodarone who develops a cough. What is the most appropriate action?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
- B. Reassure the client that this is a common side effect.
- C. Continue the amiodarone and monitor the client's symptoms.
- D. Discontinue the amiodarone immediately.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer A: The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately because a cough can be a sign of a serious side effect of amiodarone called pulmonary toxicity. Prompt action is necessary to prevent further complications. The healthcare provider needs to assess the client, possibly order diagnostic tests, and determine the appropriate course of action.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
B: Reassuring the client without further assessment could lead to delayed recognition of a serious issue.
C: Continuing amiodarone without addressing the cough may worsen the condition.
D: Discontinuing amiodarone without consulting the healthcare provider may not be appropriate and could lead to adverse effects or worsening of the client's condition.
The client on amiodarone develops symptoms of hypothyroidism. What is the nurse's best response?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
- B. Reassure the client that this is a common side effect of amiodarone.
- C. Monitor the client's thyroid function tests regularly.
- D. Discontinue the amiodarone immediately.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is C: Monitor the client's thyroid function tests regularly. This is the best approach because amiodarone can cause hypothyroidism, so monitoring thyroid function tests allows early detection and appropriate management. Option A is not necessary unless the client presents with severe symptoms. Option B is incorrect as hypothyroidism is a serious side effect that requires monitoring and possible treatment adjustments. Option D is not recommended as abruptly stopping amiodarone can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Regular monitoring ensures timely intervention if thyroid levels are abnormal.
What is the average cardiac output?
- A. Approximately 4 to 6 L per minute
- B. Approximately 4 to 8 L per minute
- C. Approximately 5 to 8 L per minute
- D. Approximately 3 to 7 L per minute
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (Approximately 4 to 8 L per minute) because the average cardiac output in a healthy adult at rest is around 5 L per minute. This range of 4 to 8 L per minute encompasses the typical cardiac output values. Choice A (Approximately 4 to 6 L per minute) is too narrow and excludes the upper range, while Choice C (Approximately 5 to 8 L per minute) is slightly broader but still within the acceptable range. Choice D (Approximately 3 to 7 L per minute) is too low and does not cover the full spectrum of average cardiac output values.
The nurse is caring for a client on amiodarone who complains of visual disturbances. What is the nurse's best response?
- A. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
- B. Reassure the client that this is a common side effect.
- C. Advise the client to monitor their symptoms at home.
- D. Suggest the client reduce physical activity.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Notify the healthcare provider immediately. Visual disturbances can be a sign of serious side effects of amiodarone, such as optic neuropathy. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider allows for timely evaluation and appropriate management.
Choice B is incorrect because visual disturbances with amiodarone are not common and should not be dismissed as such. Choice C is incorrect as self-monitoring may delay necessary medical intervention. Choice D is also incorrect as reducing physical activity does not address the underlying cause of visual disturbances and may not be necessary.
What is a condition where the heart's electrical impulses are blocked or delayed, leading to a slower or irregular heartbeat?
- A. Heart block
- B. Atrial fibrillation
- C. Tachycardia
- D. Bradycardia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Heart block. Heart block refers to a condition where the heart's electrical impulses are blocked or delayed, leading to a slower or irregular heartbeat. This occurs when there is interference with the electrical signals that control the heart's rhythm as they travel through the heart's conduction system. Atrial fibrillation (B) is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can occur due to chaotic electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers. Tachycardia (C) is a condition where the heart rate is too fast, not slower or irregular. Bradycardia (D) refers to a slow heart rate but not necessarily due to electrical impulse blockage.