Question

Before surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm, the client's pulse pressure begins to widen, suggesting increased aortic valvular insufficiency. If the branches of the aortic arch are involved, the nurse should assess the client for:

1. loss of consciousness.
2. anxiety.
3. headache.
4. disorientation.

Answer 1

A widening pulse pressure can suggest increased aortic valvular insufficiency and subsequent cerebral perfusion issues. Coarctation of the aorta can restrict blood flow, leading to symptoms like disorientation. Nurses should assess for this symptom as it could indicate reduced oxygen delivery to the brain.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client's pulse pressure begins to widen before surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm, it indicates an increased aortic valvular insufficiency. If the branches of the aortic arch are involved, it could affect cerebral perfusion leading to central nervous system symptoms such as disorientation. In a person with coarctation of the aorta, a condition manifested as a congenital abnormal narrowing of the aorta, there is a restriction of blood flow through the systemic arteries. Such restriction can lead to symptoms of inadequate cerebral perfusion like disorientation, dizziness, and fainting.

Considering the connection between the aortal condition and blood flow, it is understandable that if the branches feeding the brain are involved, there could be a reduction in oxygen delivery. Hence, it is crucial for the nurse to assess the client for signs of disorientation which can emerge as a consequence of compromised blood supply to the brain.