Cardiac tamponade is suspected in a patient diagnosed with pericarditis. What assessment data would assist the nurse in determining the presence of this complication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Changes in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, known as pulsus paradoxus, are a key indicator of cardiac tamponade. This condition involves a significant drop in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, which is a hallmark sign of this complication in patients with pericarditis.

Cardiac Tamponade Is Suspected in a Patient Diagnosed with Pericarditis