Author Question: The drug alteplase (t-PA) is given to the patient with a myocardial infarction (MI). Which statement ... (Read 81 times)

codyclark · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The drug alteplase (t-PA) is given to the patient with a myocardial infarction (MI). Which statement accurately describes the purpose of this medication?

a. Alteplase (t-PA) dissolves the obstruction in the coronary artery.
b. Alteplase (t-PA) dilates vessels to relieve pain.
c. Alteplase (t-PA) strengthens cardiac contraction.
d. Alteplase (t-PA) increases cardiac out-put.

Question 2

During a morning assessment, the nurse observes that a patient displays bulging flanks when supine with the knees flexed. Which action should the nurse take next?

a. Measure the patient's abdominal girth.
b. Auscultate each quadrant of the abdomen for 5 minutes.
c. Document the finding.
d. Notify the charge nurse.

memslove · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Alteplase (t-PA) is a thrombolytic drug that will dissolve the clot if given within 12 hours of the MI.

Answer to Question 2

A
The nurse's initial assessment indicates fluid accumulation. The nurse needs to obtain more in-formation, first measuring abdominal girth. The nurse can then percuss from the umbilicus to the flanks to detect fluid shifts, and document all findings. The nurse will only auscultate bowel sounds for 5 minutes in each quadrant if bowel sounds are not heard before then. It is unneces-sary to notify the charge nurse at this time.