ANEURYSM Flashcards
An aneurysm is an abnormal ____ of the
wall of a(n) (artery or vein).
Widening (it is also weakening), artery
What artery is widened in a thoracic
aneurysm?
The aorta
Can an aneurysm result from an infection?
From syphilis?
Yes
Yes
The most common symptom of abdominal
aneurysm is _____.
A pulsating mass above the umbilicus.
Which aneurysm is most likely to have no
symptoms…abdominal or thoracic?
The abdominal is most often “silent”, ie, no
symptoms.
Which vital signs are most important to
measure in clients with aneurysm?
The pulse and blood pressure
An aneurysm will most affect which of the
following…the blood pressure or the
pulse?
The pulse – many times the aneurysm will
rupture and much blood will be lost before
the blood pressure starts to change.
What activity order is the client with an
aneurysm supposed to have?
BEDREST – do not get these people up
If the client with aneurysm is physically
unstable, should you encourage turning,
coughing, and deep breathing?
NO – no turning, coughing, or deep
breathing until the client is stable.
What class of drugs is the client with an aneurysm most likely to be on?
Antihypertensives
What is the BIG danger with aneurysms of
any type?
Rupture – leads to shock and death.
If an aneurysm ruptured how would you
know it?
Decreased LOC (restlessness), Tachycardia
(increased pulse rate), Hypotension (these
are signs of shock) REMEMBER
tachycardia occurs before hypotension.
If an aneurysm ruptured what is the #1
priority?
Get them to the operating room ASAP
Is there anything that can be done for the
client with a ruptured aneurysm before
they get to the operating room?
Yes – if available, you can get them into
anti-shock trousers BUT not if this causes a
delay in getting them to the operating room.
The post-op thoracic aneurysm is most
likely to have which type of tube?
Chest tube, because the chest was opened
