Aneurysm / Valve Replacement

Question 1

What is an aneurism?

Answer 1

Permanent localized dilation of an artery (75% occur in abdominal aorta)
Rupture is the concern

Question 2

Etiology of an aneurism

Answer 2

Atherosclerosis

Question 3

*When is an aortic aneurism detectable?

Answer 3

• at or above 5 cm large

Question 4

*Manifestations of an aortic aneurism

Answer 4

Back pain
Flank pain
Abdominal pain
Abdominal bruit

Question 5

Nursing considerations if pt has symptoms of an aortic aneurism

Answer 5

No deep palpation
BP maintenance is very important

Question 6

Treatment for an aortic aneurism

Answer 6

Monitor growth
Control HTN
*Surgery if > 5.5 cm: AAA repair

Question 7

How does a heart transplant work?

Answer 7

1- Recipient placed on cardiopulmonary bypass, heart is removed
2- posterior walls of recipient’s left and right atria left intact
3- hearts joined

(Part of person’s heart remains and new heart connects to it)

Question 8

What is a CABG?

Answer 8

Veins/arteries from other places in body used to replace coronary arteries

Question 9

What is a partial left ventriculectomy

Answer 9

Heart reduction surgery (AKA Batista procedure)
Reduces left ventricular size

Question 10

What is biventricular pacing (AKA cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT))?

Answer 10

Like a pacemaker, but has a 3rd lead to help left ventricular have normal contraction when it also doesn’t function properly

Question 11

What is an implanted cardio enter defibrillator (ICD)?

Answer 11

Continuously checks for irregular heartbeats. If it finds one, it sends a brief shock to reset the heart rhythm

Question 12

What is the heart jacket?

Answer 12

Mesh that wraps around the heart and delivers electrical impulses to the ventricles

Question 13

Activity level instructions for pts after AAA surgery

Answer 13

• Stair climbing usually prohibited (May need bedside commode)
• may not lift objects more than 15-20 lbs for 6-12 weeks after surgery
• usually can’t drive car for several weeks