When caring for a patient with pulmonary hypertension, which ...

[DelorasTo]

When caring for a patient with pulmonary hypertension, which parameter is most appropriate for the nurse to monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment?
 
  a. Central venous pressure (CVP)
  b. Systemic vascular resistance (SVR)
  c. Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR)
  d. Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP)

Question 2

Following surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a patient's central venous pressure (CVP) monitor indicates low pressures. Which action is a priority for the nurse to take?
 
  a. Administer IV diuretic medications.
  b. Increase the IV fluid infusion per protocol.
  c. Document the CVP and continue to monitor.
  d. Elevate the head of the patient's bed to 45 degrees.

[meltdown117]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
PVR is a major contributor to pulmonary hypertension, and a decrease would indicate that pulmonary hypertension was improving. The other parameters also may be monitored but do not directly assess for pulmonary hypertension.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A low CVP indicates hypovolemia and a need for an increase in the infusion rate. Diuretic administration will contribute to hypovolemia and elevation of the head may decrease cerebral perfusion. Documentation and continued monitoring is an inadequate response to the low CVP.

[DelorasTo]

Excellent

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