1 Cardiovascular Assessment and Nursing Priorities Free Online FlashCards

What should a nurse assess first when a cardiovascular patient may be unstable?

Begin by assessing airway, breathing, and circulation, then evaluate level of consciousness, vital signs, and whether symptoms are new or worsening.

Which details help characterize chest discomfort?

Ask about onset, location, duration, character, severity, relieving or worsening factors, and radiation to the arm, back, neck, jaw, or abdomen.

What should a peripheral perfusion assessment include?

Compare peripheral pulses on both sides and assess skin temperature and color, sensation, movement, and capillary refill.

How is cardiac output calculated?

Cardiac output is the volume of blood pumped by a ventricle per minute: $CO = HR \times SV$, where $HR$ is heart rate and $SV$ is stroke volume.

What does preload describe?

Preload is ventricular filling and stretch before contraction. Circulating volume and venous return affect it.

What blood pressure range is classified as stage 1 hypertension for nonpregnant adults?

Stage 1 hypertension is systolic pressure of 130–139 mm Hg or diastolic pressure of 80–89 mm Hg.

Why is one blood pressure reading insufficient to diagnose hypertension?

A single reading is not a complete assessment of usual blood pressure and should not by itself be used to diagnose hypertension.

Which cardiovascular risk factors are modifiable?

Modifiable risks include high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, tobacco use, diabetes, excess body weight, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy eating pattern.

What action is recommended for a suspected heart attack in the community?

Possible heart attack symptoms include chest discomfort, discomfort elsewhere in the upper body, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness. In the community, call 911 for a suspected heart attack.

Which accompanying findings make palpitations urgent?

Palpitations with chest pain, shortness of breath, hypotension, fainting, altered mental status, or signs of shock require urgent escalation.

What should be monitored for heart failure or suspected fluid overload?

Assess breathing, lung sounds, edema, jugular venous distention, weight trends, and intake and output as ordered.

When should oxygen be provided during cardiovascular care?

Provide oxygen when indicated by hypoxemia or protocol; do not assume every cardiovascular patient requires it.