The nurse is teaching a patient about coronary artery bypass surgery via the left internal mammary artery. Which information is essential for the patient to understand?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is essential for the patient to understand that even with successful coronary artery bypass surgery, they must still reduce or modify cardiac risk factors to prevent the recurrence of atherosclerosis and associated complications. This education is critical to the patient's postoperative care and long-term health. Option B and D are incorrect because patients can live much longer than 2 years after surgery, and while the procedure restores blood flow to the heart, it does not cure atherosclerosis. Option C is also incorrect because many patients experience functional improvement after coronary artery bypass surgery.

The Nurse Is Teaching a Patient About Coronary Artery Bypass