The nurse is monitoring a client who has recently undergone pericardiocentesis. The nurse suspects cardiac tamponade after observing which of the following?
A)A rapid increase in blood pressure and flushing
B)Jugular vein distention (JVD) and narrowing pulse pressure
C)Bradycardia and bilateral crackles
D)Louder and harsher heart sounds

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When cardiac tamponade occurs, the restriction reduces stroke volume, cardiac output, and blood pressure. The right atrium is restricted, causing JVD and increasing pressure during diastole. While the decreased stroke volume decreases the volume during systole, the client compensates for decreased stroke volume and cardiac output by increasing heart rate. Because of decreased filling pressure, cardiac output drops and blood pumped from the right heart is reduced. Lung sounds are usually clear; heart sounds become more distant and muffled because they are heard through the fluid collection in the pericardium.

The Nurse Is Monitoring a Client Who Has Recently Undergone