Devices for cardiovascular disorders

Question 1

Doppler ultrasound

Answer 1

Determines the quality of blood flow through a vessel.

Can be used to assess coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and deep vein thrombosis.

Doppler may be used to determine the Presence of carotid or peripheral pulses that are difficult to palpate manually.

Question 2

Automatic external defibrillator device (AED)

Answer 2

Diagnoses ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
The AED stops arrhythmias and allows the heart to reestablish and operational rhythm

Question 3

Artifact on an ECG

Answer 3

Interference with the ECG wave forms that leads to distortion

Question 4

Central venous pressure monitoring (CVP)

Answer 4

Used when patient has a change and fluid volume either fluid overload or fluid deficit.

Central venous catheter is threaded through subclavian and inserted into the superior vena cava. CVP is measured in the right atrium and is used to assess the functioning of the right ventricle.

Question 5

Normal CVP reading

Answer 5

0- 8mm Hg.

Increased reading indicates hypervolemia or increased preload. Increased CVP can also be caused by decreased myocardial contractility.

Decreased reading indicates hypovolemia or decreased preload.

Question 6

Cardiac pacemaker

Answer 6

Assume the role of the heart pacemaker - the SA node.

Electrodes are placed on the heart’s right ventricle or atrium.

Question 7

Nursing interventions following insertion of a pacemaker

Answer 7

Monitor for complications such as perforation, pneumothorax, hemothorax and cardiac tamponade.
Bed rest 12 hours.
Monitor ECG to detect lead dislodgment.
Hiccuping can be an indication of lead dislodgment.