Homan's sign - Answers To assess DVT. Client forcefully dorsiflexes the foot. If pain is present,
may indicate positive result. Warm, tender, reddened, hardened area of calf indicates
thrombophlebitis
Most dangerous heart arrhythmia - Answers Ventricular tachycardia. Occurrence of 3 or more
consecutive PVC's. May go as high as 140-240BPM. Low BP, weak/absent pulses, body
weakness, possible unconsciousness. Treat immediately, otherwise possible v-fib
Fluid in pericardial space - Answers Some is normal as lubricant to help pump effectively. If
excess fluid, it is called pericardial effusion. S1 and S2 will be muffled & hard to hear bc of the
fluid
DVT complications - Answers Can lead to fatal PE. Treatments include anticoagulants.
Preventative measures are ambulation, leg exercises, antiembolism stockings or compression
devices
Discharge teaching for thrombophlebitis - Answers Anticoagulant such as coumadin. Drink 2-3
quarts of h2o daily, no crossed legs, elevate legs while sitting, avoid sitting or standing long
periods, wear support, shift weight back and forth for circulation. Notify PCP asap if assumed
DVT or PE
Bradycardia - Answers HR 60 or lower. Causes include myocardial ischemia, electrolyte
imbalances, vagal stim, beta blockers, drug toxicity, intracranial tumors, sleep, vomiting.
Treatments: atropine. May require pacemaker. Athletes usually not treated.
Tachycardia - Answers 100-150BPM. Causes are stress, fever, meds, pain, anemia, pericarditis,
CHF, caffeine, tobacco. Treatments to stop: meds, heart shock. Treatments to prevent: catheter
ablation, meds, pacemaker, defibrillator, surgery
Complications of A-Fib - Answers 350-600BPM. Symptoms may be palpitations, dyspnea,
dizziness, angina, syncope. Blood pools in atria bc not contracting properly.
Foods to avoid with an atrial dysrhythmia - Answers fat, caffeine.
treatment of v-fib - Answers oxygen. amiodarone aka cordarone given thru IV. Lidocaine
hydrochloride, mag sulfate. Can also be cardioverted if peripheral pulses are present or defib if
peripheral pulses are absent
Landmarks of defibrillation - Answers The delivery of unsynchronized high energy electircal
shock during an emergency situation such as MI or pulseless VT
Placement of defib pads - Answers right of sternum below clavical at apex of heart. Lubed with
gel, done by cardiac doc or nurPN3 Exam 2 Questions and Answers Latest Update 2025-2026se.
everyone should stand clear to prevent shock