Aorta

Question 1

Patho of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Answer 1

Weakening in vessel wall -> blood-filled bulge in abdominal aorta (aneurysm)
Continous force of blood pumping through aorta increases size of aneurysm

Question 2

S+S of AAA

Answer 2

Usually asymptomatic
Pulsatile abdominal mass
Intense abdominal/back/flank pain
Hypotension
Tachycardia
Signs of shock

Question 3

What happens when AAA ruptures? What nursing interventions are needed?

Answer 3

Multiple blood transfusions
IV fluid bolus
Immediate surgery

Question 4

Postop education for AAA surgery

Answer 4

Monitor peripheral pulses distal to graft site
Monitor UO hourly
Avoid lifting heavy weights

Question 5

Patho of Aortic dissection

Answer 5

Tear develops in inner layer of aorta
Blood surges through tear into middle layer of aorta
Separation of inner and middle layers occurs = dissect
False lumen forms

Question 6

Risk factors of Aortic dissection

Answer 6

HTN
Cocaine use

Question 7

Nursing interventions for Aortic dissection

Answer 7

Reduce HR and BP
Semi-Fowler position
Cluster care
Quiet environment

Question 8

Med for Aortic dissection

Answer 8

BB: to reduce HR and BP
Opioid