Question

Which of the following adjustments should be made to the doppler settings when evaluating left ventricular inflow in a patient with constrictive pericarditis?

A) Decrease the sweep speed
B) Increase the sweep speed
C) Decrease the PRF to demonstrate the expected low velocity peaks of the mitral waveform
D) Increase the PRF to demonstrate the expected E peak velocities greater than 2.0 m/s

Answer 1

To evaluate left ventricular inflow in a patient with constrictive pericarditis, the Doppler settings should be adjusted by decreasing the PRF to demonstrate the expected low velocity peaks of the mitral waveform.

Step-by-step explanation:

When evaluating left ventricular inflow in a patient with constrictive pericarditis, the appropriate adjustment to the Doppler settings is to decrease the PRF (Pulse Repetition Frequency) to demonstrate the expected low velocity peaks of the mitral waveform. Constrictive pericarditis is a condition where the pericardium, the protective sac around the heart, becomes stiff and restricts the filling of the heart chambers. Therefore, decreasing the PRF allows for better visualization of the slowed blood flow in the left ventricle.