A patient is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. In which ...

[moongchi]

A patient is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. In which order should the nurse describe the events in this diagnostic test?
 
  1. Contrast dye is injected.
  2. Heart activity is filmed.
  3. A catheter is inserted into a vein or artery in the leg.
  4. The catheter is threaded to the heart chamber.

Question 2

A patient is scheduled for a pericardiocentesis. Which health problem is the patient likely experiencing?
 
  1. cardiac tamponade
  2. slow heart rhythm
  3. chest pain
  4. suspected damage to a heart valve

[pami445]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3, 4, 1, 2
The catheter is inserted in the leg, then threaded to the heart chamber. Contrast is injected and heart activity is filmed.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
In the case of cardiac tamponade, pericardiocentesis is considered an emergency procedure. It is done to remove fluid from the pericardial sac, which is preventing the heart from pumping blood effectively. This procedure would not be recommended for patients with chest pain, slow heart rhythm, or suspected damage to a heart valve.