2026
what are the hemodynamic indicators of preload? - Answers CVP
PCWP
how is low or high preload treated? - Answers low; increase fluid volume w/ IVP
high; fluid overload correct w/ diuretics
what hemodynamic changes would you see in cardiogenic shock? - Answers decreased LV
pumping =
decreased CO, BP, systolic emptying, perfusion
increased preload, left filling pressure, PCWP, PAP, PVR
interventions for cardiogenic shock - Answers reperfusion = O2, vasopressors
decrease <3 workload w/ vasopressors, dobutamine/milrinone
if a patient has a high SVR and high BP, what drugs might be used? - Answers ACE inhibitors;
decrease vascular resistance/decrease remodeling
beta blockers; increased vasodilation & decrease HR/afterload
when a PA catheter is in place, how do you know if the balloon is wedged? - Answers connected
to monitor for waveform to display
when should a nurse call a rapid response? - Answers patient failing outside of ICU:
- patient deteriorating quickly
- acute change in condition
- any concern about a pt's condition
, goal: prevent ICU admission, or facilitate timely transfer to ICU = prevent codes
when should a nurse call a code? - Answers when pt has no pulse, not breathing, or rhythm not
compatible with life (asystole, PEA, VF, VT)
which dysrhythmias are treated with defibrillation? - Answers v. fib
v. tach if pulseless
what to assess for a pt in VT - Answers K, Mag, and O2
what drug is used during CPR for the patient with asystole? - Answers epinephrine w/ CPR
steps to analyzing a rhythm strip: - Answers 1. count QRS complexes to determine HR
2. evaluate if rhythm is ir/regular
3. identify P waves per QRS complex
4. measure PR interval (0.12-0.20)
5. measure QRS complex (<0.12)
6. look at QT interval
what are the characteristics of a. fib? - Answers irregular HR
lacking P waves d/t premature ventricular contractions
what predisposes patients to a ventricular dysrhythmias? - Answers a preexisting dysthymias of
any kind
what do the waveforms of VT look like? - Answers increased HR
wide QRS complexes
jagged, sawtooth shape
what do the waveforms of VF look like? - Answers chaotic activity
no pulse
wavy quivering line
describe ECG characteristics of pacemaker rhythms - Answers causes a pacer spike seen
before P wave, before QRS, or both
common clinical indicators of SIRS and sepsis - Answers temp >38 or <36
hypotension