When caring for a patient who is recovering from a sudden cardiac ...

[aabwk4]

When caring for a patient who is recovering from a sudden cardiac death (SCD) event and has no evidence of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the nurse will anticipate teaching the patient that
 
  a. sudden cardiac death events rarely reoccur.
  b. additional diagnostic testing will be required.
  c. long-term anticoagulation therapy will be needed.
  d. limited physical activity after discharge will be needed to prevent future events.

Question 2

Three days after experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI), a patient who is scheduled for discharge asks for assistance with hygiene activities, saying, I am too nervous to take care of myself.
 
  Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis is appropriate?
  a. Ineffective coping related to anxiety
  b. Activity intolerance related to weakness
  c. Denial related to lack of acceptance of the MI
  d. Disturbed personal identity related to understanding of illness

[Bison]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Diagnostic testing (e.g., stress test, Holter monitor, electrophysiologic studies, cardiac catheterization) is used to determine the possible cause of the SCD and treatment options. SCD is likely to recur. Anticoagulation therapy will not have any effect on the incidence of SCD, and SCD can occur even when the patient is resting.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The patient data indicate that ineffective coping after the MI caused by anxiety about the impact of the MI is a concern. The other nursing diagnoses may be appropriate for some patients after an MI, but the data for this patient do not support denial, activity intolerance, or disturbed personal identity.