Question

A patient has developed pericarditis. The nurse knows that this condition will increase the risk for development of which condition?

a) Distributive shock
b) Systolic dysfunction
c) Diastolic dysfunction
d) Obstructive shock

Answer 1

A patient with pericarditis is at increased risk for obstructive shock due to potential cardiac tamponade, which prevents the heart from filling and functioning properly.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, can lead to an accumulation of excess fluid in the pericardial cavity, a condition known as cardiac tamponade. This excess fluid can impede the heart’s ability to fill properly during diastole, resulting in what is called diastolic dysfunction. Furthermore, if the amount of fluid becomes significant enough, it can lead to an increase in intrapericardial pressure which can restrict the heart's movements and create a physical barrier to the heart's normal functions; this scenario can lead to obstructive shock. This is because obstructive shock occurs when there is a blockage that impedes the heart's capability to circulate blood, such as with cardiac tamponade, a characteristic complication of pericarditis. Consequently, the correct answer to a nurse considering the risks associated with pericarditis would be d) Obstructive shock.