NCLEX : Causes and Treatments of Cardiovascular Conditions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for NCLEX

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Example Questions

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Example Question #11 : Cardiovascular Conditions

The nurse cares for a patient in the stroke unit. The physician has ordered thrombolytic therapy for this patient. The nurse knows that the patient cannot receive thrombolytic medication if which of these is true?

Possible Answers:

The patient has a history of cardiac dysrhythmias.

The patient had knee replacement surgery two weeks ago.

The patient takes propranolol every day.

The patient takes ibuprofen every day.

The patient was pregnant three months ago.

Correct answer:

The patient had knee replacement surgery two weeks ago.

Explanation:

Thrombolytic therapy is commonly given to patients who have strokes to dissolve clots. This therapy is contraindicated in people who have recently had surgery due to the risk for hemorrhage. It is also contraindicated in currently pregnant women. Ibuprofen and beta blockers are not contraindications to thrombolytic therapy. Cardiac dysrhythmias are also not contraindicated with thrombolytic therapy.

Example Question #1261 : Nclex

An EKG monitor reveals a patient is in ventricular fibrillation. He is subsequently provided the appropriate management and is converted to normal sinus rhythm. What is the mechanism of this management?

Possible Answers:

Pharmacologic therapy to block the release of angiotensin

Pharmacologic therapy to slow conduction at the sinoatrial node

Electrical shock to restart the electrical conductivity of the heart

Electrical shock to speed up heart rate

Pharmacologic therapy to slow conduction at the atrioventricular node

Correct answer:

Electrical shock to restart the electrical conductivity of the heart

Explanation:

Ventricular fibrillation is a potentially lethal rhythm. It is treated via defibrillation. This is an electrical shock that temporarily stops the heart in an attempt to have the natural pacemaker rhythm of the heart take over. Electrical therapy via defibrillation is the appropriate management of ventricular fibrillation.

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