PCU Hemodynamic Monitoring & Vascular Access 2

Question 1

Which formula is used to calculate mean arterial pressure (MAP)?

Accepted Answer

(Systolic BP + 2 × Diastolic BP) / 3

Answer

MAP = (Systolic BP + 2 × Diastolic BP) / 3, reflecting that diastole occupies approximately two-thirds of the cardiac cycle.

Question 2

A PCU nurse observes that a patient's arterial waveform shows pulsus paradoxus with an inspiratory drop in systolic BP greater than 10 mmHg. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac tamponade

Answer

Pulsus paradoxus greater than 10 mmHg is a hallmark sign of cardiac tamponade due to exaggerated ventricular interdependence during respiration.

Question 3

When caring for a patient with a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), a pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) of 22 mmHg most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Left ventricular failure and elevated left-sided filling pressures

Answer

Normal PAWP is 6–12 mmHg; a value of 22 mmHg indicates elevated left-sided filling pressures, consistent with left ventricular failure.

Question 4

Which complication is most specific to the use of a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC)?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary artery rupture

Answer

Pulmonary artery rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication unique to PAC use, often associated with over-wedging or balloon over-inflation.

Question 5

A patient receiving a peripheral IV infusion develops pain, erythema, and a palpable cord along the vein. Which intervention is the priority?

Accepted Answer

Discontinue the IV and remove the catheter

Answer

Signs of thrombophlebitis require immediate discontinuation of the IV and removal of the catheter to prevent further vein damage and potential infection.

PCU - Progressive Care Unit Certification Practice Test

PCU - Progressive Care Unit Certification Practice Test

PCU Hemodynamic Monitoring & Vascular Access 2