ABPANC Cardiovascular Assessment & Monitoring 3

Question 1

A perianesthesia nurse notes the patient's pulse pressure has narrowed (systolic 92 mmHg, diastolic 84 mmHg). This finding is MOST suggestive of:

Accepted Answer

Decreased stroke volume and reduced cardiac output

Answer

Aortic regurgitation with wide pulse pressure

Answer

Hypervolemia causing increased cardiac output

Answer

Hyperthermia causing peripheral vasodilation

Question 2

When a post-operative patient develops a new dysrhythmia on continuous cardiac monitoring, the MOST important initial nursing action is:

Accepted Answer

Assess the patient's hemodynamic status and level of consciousness first

Answer

Immediately obtain a 12-lead ECG before assessing the patient

Answer

Administer antiarrhythmic medication per standing orders

Answer

Reduce monitor alarm sensitivity to prevent false alarms

Question 3

In the PACU, which patient position is MOST appropriate for a hypotensive patient with no contraindications?

Accepted Answer

Modified Trendelenburg (supine with legs elevated 15–30 degrees)

Answer

High Fowler's position (90 degrees)

Answer

Prone position for improved hemodynamics

Answer

Left lateral decubitus position

Question 4

A patient recovering from general anesthesia has a heart rate of 112 bpm. Which cause should the perianesthesia nurse assess for FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Pain, anxiety, fever, or hypovolemia as common reversible causes

Answer

Cardiac dysrhythmia requiring immediate antiarrhythmic therapy

Answer

Thyroid storm requiring endocrine consultation

Answer

Pulmonary embolism requiring anticoagulation

Question 5

The perianesthesia nurse observes a prolonged QT interval on the cardiac monitor. This finding most increases the patient's risk for which life-threatening dysrhythmia?

Accepted Answer

Torsades de pointes

Answer

Atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response

Answer

First-degree AV block progressing to complete heart block

Answer

Sinus bradycardia with escape rhythm

Question 6

A post-operative patient receiving IV potassium develops peaked T waves on the cardiac monitor. The nurse should IMMEDIATELY:

Accepted Answer

Stop the potassium infusion and notify the physician for reassessment of potassium level

Answer

Increase the potassium infusion rate to complete the replacement faster

Answer

Administer calcium gluconate to enhance potassium cellular uptake

Answer

Continue monitoring since peaked T waves are expected during potassium replacement

Question 7

When a perianesthesia nurse auscultates a new S3 heart sound in a post-operative patient, this finding MOST likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Decreased ventricular compliance or early heart failure with volume overload

Answer

Aortic stenosis causing turbulent systolic flow

Answer

Mitral valve regurgitation with systolic murmur

Answer

Normal cardiac finding expected in adults over 40 years of age