pericarditis
Classic chest pain improves when the patient:
A. Lies flat
B. Sits leaning forward
C. Exercises
D. Sleeps
B. Sits leaning forward
What triggers attacks?
Cold exposure and emotional stress
Lymphedema results from impaired __________ drainage.
Lymphatic
Cellulitis is an infection of the:
Skin and subcutaneous tissue
Blood pressure is usually greater than:
180/120 mm Hg
What assessment finding is unique?
Pericardial friction rub
Affected fingers change what three colors?
White → Blue → Red
Best long-term management?
Compression therapy
Common symptoms?
Hypertensive emergency differs from urgency because:
There is evidence of target-organ damage.
What are three s/s of pericarditis?
sharp chest pain
fever, chills
dyspnea
Malaise/fever
tachycardia
(And the unique assessment finding)
Priority nursing teaching?
Keep hands warm and avoid smoking.
Name three nursing interventions.
Most common treatment?
Antibiotics
Which organs are commonly affected?
What life-threatening complication must the nurse monitor for?
Cardiac tamponade
What medications may help?
Calcium channel blockers
Why is meticulous skin care essential?
To prevent cellulitis.
The nurse marks the edge of redness. Why?
To monitor spread of infection.
Name three symptoms requiring immediate intervention.
Signs of cardiac tamponade include?
Why should nicotine be avoided?
It causes vasoconstriction.
Patients should avoid which on the affected limb?
Major complication?
Sepsis
Why should blood pressure NOT be lowered too quickly?
Rapid reduction can decrease perfusion to the brain, heart, and kidneys, increasing the risk of ischemic injury.