30 Questions
What is one of the most important aspects of care for a patient with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?
Performing a focused physical assessment
Why are two IV lines typically placed for any patient with ACS?
To ensure access for administering emergency medications
What role does the assessment play in the care of a patient with ACS?
It identifies the patient's needs and determines their priority
Why are medications administered IV for a patient with ACS?
To achieve rapid onset and timely adjustment
What is the purpose of changing IV lines to a saline lock after the patient's condition stabilizes?
To maintain IV access without continuous fluid infusion
What is the most preferred term used synonymously with coronary occlusion and heart attack?
Myocardial infarction
What can help certain patients relax and reduce anxiety?
Pet therapy
What is critical in the close monitoring for and early identification of complications after acute MI?
Changes in patient's vital signs
How can the nurse increase the probability that the patient will implement a self-care regimen after discharge?
By identifying the patient's priorities
What does the spectrum of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include?
All of the above
What is the main perpetrator of a 'heart attack'?
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
What causes complications after acute MI?
Reduced coronary blood flow
What is starved of oxygen in acute MI, leading to myocardial cell necrosis?
Myocardium
What should the nurse monitor closely for changes in after acute MI?
Laboratory values
What is the top priority in the care of a patient with an ACS?
Relieving pain and other signs and symptoms of ischemia
Why is elevation of the head and torso beneficial for a patient with ACS?
To increase venous return to the heart, reducing the work of the heart
What is the purpose of administering oxygen to a patient with ACS?
To assist with relief of symptoms
What is the rationale for promoting skin temperature and peripheral pulse checks frequently in a patient with ACS?
To monitor tissue perfusion
Why is developing a trusting and caring relationship critical in reducing anxiety for a patient with ACS?
To reduce sympathetic stress response and workload of the heart
What is the goal of providing information to the patient and family in an honest and supportive manner?
To encourage the patient to be a partner in care
What may be measured in the blood to assess myocardial damage?
Troponin I and T
How is patients' chest pain typically described?
Central chest pain or tightness described as dull or crushing
What mnemonic can be used to assess patients' chest pain?
SOCRATES
What are some symptoms that may occur with or without chest pain?
Shortness of breath, palpitations, syncope, or autonomic symptoms
What is a general priority for patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?
Hemodynamic monitoring and close observation of vital signs
What should nurses be able to recognize when caring for patients who recently had coronary angiography?
Complications related to radial or femoral access sites
What is an important aspect of nursing care for patients with ACS?
Swift recognition of any cardiac changes on the serial EKGs
What elements of nursing care should nurses provide for patients with ACS?
Ongoing management of IV cannulas, central venous pressure lines, urinary catheters, and wounds and dressings
What role do nurses play in providing psychosocial support to patients with ACS?
Calm, reassuring, and ensuring pain and other symptoms are well controlled
What should nurses do when possible in terms of patient communication?
Give patients a chance to speak about their experiences, address their concerns and relay these to the multidisciplinary team
Test your knowledge of nursing communication techniques and alternative therapies with this quiz. Explore the ways nurses provide opportunities for patients to share concerns and fears, and how alternative therapies such as pet therapy can help in relaxation and anxiety reduction.
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