Question

The telemetry nurse notes a peaked T wave for the client diagnosed with CHF. Which laboratory data should the nurse assess?

a. CK-MB.
b. Troponin.
c. BNP.
d. Potassium.

Answer 1

The nurse should assess cardiac troponin and CK-MB levels to evaluate the patient's cardiac health and determine if there has been any myocardial damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Elevated levels of cardiac troponin and creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) are laboratory data that the nurse should assess in the case of a patient diagnosed with CHF and experiencing a peaked T wave on the ECG. Cardiac troponin is a regulatory protein for muscle contraction, while CK-MB is an enzyme released by damaged cardiac muscle cells. Both of these markers are commonly elevated in cases of myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack.

While CK-MB is one of the markers used to diagnose MI, it is important to note that CHF and an elevated T wave do not necessarily indicate a heart attack. However, monitoring these laboratory data can help the nurse assess the patient's cardiac status and any potential myocardial damage.

In brief, the nurse should assess cardiac troponin and CK-MB levels to evaluate the patient's cardiac health and determine if there has been any myocardial damage.