Question 1

Which assessment finding by the nurse caring for a patient who has had coronary artery bypass grafting using a right radial artery graft is most important to communicate to the health care provider?

Accepted Answer

A) Complaints of incisional chest pain 
B) Pallor and weakness of the right hand 
C) Fine crackles heard at both lung bases 
D) Redness on both sides of the sternal incision

Question 2

Heparin is ordered for a patient with a non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the purpose of the heparin?

Accepted Answer

A) Heparin enhances platelet aggregation at the plaque site. 
B) Heparin decreases the size of the coronary artery plaque. 
C) Heparin prevents the development of new clots in the coronary arteries. 
D) Heparin dissolves clots that are blocking blood flow in the coronary arteries.

Question 3

A patient recovering from a myocardial infarction (MI)develops chest pain on day 3 that increases when taking a deep breath and is relieved by leaning forward. Which action should the nurse take as focused follow-up on this symptom?

Accepted Answer

A) Assess the feet for pedal edema. 
B) Palpate the radial pulses bilaterally. 
C) Auscultate for a pericardial friction rub. 
D) Check the heart monitor for dysrhythmias.

Exam 33: Coronary Artery Disease and Acute Coronary Syndrome

Which assessment finding by the nurse caring for a patient who has had coronary artery bypass grafting using a right radial artery graft is most important to communicate to the health care provider?

Heparin is ordered for a patient with a non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) . What is the purpose of the heparin?

A patient recovering from a myocardial infarction (MI) develops chest pain on day 3 that increases when taking a deep breath and is relieved by leaning forward. Which action should the nurse take as focused follow-up on this symptom?