Exam 3: Aneurysm

Question 1

why does aortic enlargement increase the risk of an aneurysms?

Answer 1

enlarged aorta = weak vessel walls
HTN puts increased pressure on already weak vessel walls = rupture

Question 2

what group of meds increases the risk of AAA dissection?

Answer 2

fluroquinolones

Question 3

what meds/treatments are provided for a patient with an aneurysm?

Answer 3

fluids
blood replacement
control BP
analgesics
statins
aspirin

Question 4

what are signs/symptoms of an intact aneurysm?

Answer 4

asymptomatic
fever
flank pain
LBP
pulsating mass
abdominal bruit

Question 5

what labs do you need to get with an aneurysm?

Answer 5

CBC
US
CT (with or without contrast)

Question 6

what does an US tell us about an aneurysm and how often do we US?

Answer 6

size; every 6 months

Question 7

how is treatment different based on the size of an aneurysm?

Answer 7

<5 cm = watch and wait (if asymptomatic)
>5 cm = consider surgery

Question 8

what patient education is provided to a patient with an aneurysm

Answer 8

stop smoking
decrease weight
decrease fat
decrease sodium
decrease caffeine
enteral feeding if intubated

Question 9

typical assessment = look, auscultate, palpate; what do you do if there is a suspected/confirmed AAA

Answer 9

do not palpate!! can cause to rupture

Question 10

what are the two key signs of AAA rupture

Answer 10

flank and LBP

Question 11

what are 5 key nursing interventions for aneurysms

Answer 11

ABGs
type/crossmatch for blood products
Q1 vitals
daily weights
daily fluid status