A patient is admitted to the hospital with possible acute pericarditis.The nurse explains to the patient that to confirm a diagnosis of acute pericarditis,the physician will most likely use which of the following tests?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most common initial test to diagnose acute pericarditis is performing multiple electrocardiograms (ECGs) to look for specific changes in the heart's electrical activity, which are characteristic of the disease. Blood cultures may be ordered to check for any infection, but they are not necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure and is not required for the diagnosis of acute pericarditis. Fluid obtained by pericardiocentesis is used to relieve symptoms, but it is not always necessary for diagnosis.

A Patient Is Admitted to the Hospital with Possible Acute