Question

After receiving information about four patients during change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

a. Patient with acute pericarditis who has a pericardial friction rub.

b. Patient who has just returned to the unit after balloon valvuloplasty.
c. Patient who has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and a heart rate of 116.
d. Patient with a mitral valve replacement who has an anticoagulant scheduled.

Answer 1

The nurse should assess the patient with acute pericarditis who has a pericardial friction rub first as this indicates inflammation in the tissues surrounding the heart and may require immediate medical intervention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should assess the patient with acute pericarditis who has a pericardial friction rub first. Acute pericarditis is a condition marked by chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a dry cough. The presence of a pericardial friction rub indicates inflammation in the tissues surrounding the heart and may require immediate medical intervention. The nurse should prioritize assessing this patient to evaluate the severity of the condition and provide appropriate treatment.