Cardiac ICU Nursing ACTUAL UPDATED QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS

Cardiac ICU Nursing ACTUAL
UPDATED QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS
1. What is the primary role of a nurse in a cardiac ICU?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Cardiac ICU nurses provide continuous monitoring of cardiac
patients, including vital signs, hemodynamics, ECG, and lab values. They identify early signs
of deterioration such as arrhythmias or heart failure. Nurses collaborate with cardiologists,
respiratory therapists, and other team members for timely interventions. Supportive care
includes pain management, medication administration, and infection prevention. Patient
education focuses on explaining procedures, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to
therapy. Early recognition of changes prevents complications such as cardiac arrest or shock.
Continuous documentation ensures accurate records for decision-making and patient safety.


2. How is hemodynamic monitoring performed in cardiac ICU patients?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Hemodynamic monitoring includes arterial lines, central venous
catheters, and pulmonary artery catheters. Nurses assess blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac
output, and systemic vascular resistance. Monitoring guides fluid management, vasoactive
medications, and detection of shock or heart failure. Patient education focuses on explaining
catheter purpose and mobility restrictions. Supportive care includes infection prevention,
catheter care, and monitoring for complications. Early detection of hemodynamic changes
prevents organ hypoperfusion and deterioration. Continuous monitoring ensures accurate data
for interventions and patient safety.


3. What are the indications for continuous ECG monitoring in cardiac ICU?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Continuous ECG monitoring is indicated for patients with
arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, unstable angina, post-cardiac surgery, or electrolyte
disturbances. Nurses monitor rate, rhythm, conduction, and ST changes. Early recognition of
arrhythmias allows timely intervention with medications, pacing, or defibrillation. Patient
education includes explaining monitoring and reassuring the patient. Supportive care includes
managing electrolyte imbalances, providing oxygen, and hemodynamic support. Early
detection prevents cardiac arrest and complications. Continuous monitoring ensures patient
safety and effective cardiac care.


4. How is cardiac output measured in ICU patients?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Cardiac output can be measured via pulmonary artery catheter
(thermodilution), non-invasive cardiac output monitors, or echocardiography. Nurses ensure
accurate calibration, zeroing, and waveform interpretation. Monitoring guides fluid

, management, medication titration, and detection of cardiac dysfunction. Patient education
includes explaining procedure and its purpose. Supportive care includes hemodynamic
support, prevention of complications, and comfort measures. Early detection prevents
hypotension, organ hypoperfusion, and heart failure. Continuous monitoring ensures therapy
effectiveness and patient safety.


5. What are the clinical signs of cardiogenic shock in ICU patients?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Signs include hypotension, tachycardia, weak pulses, cool
extremities, altered mental status, and oliguria. Nurses monitor hemodynamics, urine output,
lactate levels, and vital signs. Early recognition allows timely interventions such as fluid
resuscitation, vasoactive medications, and mechanical support. Patient education includes
explaining interventions and importance of reporting symptoms. Supportive care includes
oxygen therapy, hemodynamic support, and psychological support. Early detection prevents
multi-organ failure and mortality. Continuous monitoring ensures patient safety and effective
management.


6. How is central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring used in cardiac ICU?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ CVP monitoring assesses right atrial pressure, fluid status, and
cardiac preload. Indications include heart failure, shock, post-cardiac surgery, or fluid
resuscitation. Nurses ensure proper catheter placement, aseptic technique, and transducer
zeroing. Patient education includes explaining catheter purpose and mobility restrictions.
Supportive care includes monitoring for infection, thrombosis, and catheter-related
complications. Early detection of abnormal CVP guides fluid management and prevents
worsening heart failure. Continuous monitoring ensures accurate assessment and patient
safety.


7. How are arrhythmias monitored and managed in cardiac ICU patients?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ Arrhythmias are monitored using continuous ECG telemetry
and bedside monitors. Nurses assess rate, rhythm, conduction, and ECG changes.
Management includes antiarrhythmic medications, pacing, or defibrillation as indicated.
Patient education includes explaining arrhythmia, interventions, and importance of reporting
symptoms. Supportive care includes hemodynamic monitoring, oxygen therapy, and
electrolyte management. Early recognition prevents cardiac arrest and complications.
Continuous monitoring ensures patient safety and timely interventions.


8. How is pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) monitored in cardiac ICU?

CORRECT ANSWERS✅✅ PAP monitoring uses a Swan-Ganz catheter to assess right heart
pressures, pulmonary vascular resistance, and cardiac output. Nurses ensure correct
placement, calibration, and waveform interpretation. Monitoring guides fluid management,