Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

What is the most important action for a cardiac-vascular nurse when monitoring a patient after cardiac catheterization for signs of adequate perfusion?

1. Assess the patient's pain levels regularly

2. Monitor vital signs every hour

3. Palpate peripheral pulses

4. Review lab results for electrolyte imbalances

The correct answer is: Palpate peripheral pulses

The most important action for a cardiac-vascular nurse when monitoring a patient after cardiac catheterization for signs of adequate perfusion is to palpate peripheral pulses. This practice is critical because peripheral pulses provide direct information about the patient's blood flow and circulation to the extremities. Adequate perfusion means that blood is reaching the tissues, and palpating peripheral pulses helps assess the strength and quality of blood flow in the extremities. Any changes in the pulses, such as weakness or absence, may indicate complications such as arterial occlusion or inadequate perfusion due to potential thrombus formation at the catheterization site. While regularly assessing pain levels, monitoring vital signs, and reviewing lab results for electrolyte imbalances are important components of patient care, they are not as immediate or specific for detecting perfusion status as palpating peripheral pulses. Monitoring vital signs can indicate systemic changes, but may not directly reflect localized perfusion issues. Similarly, pain can be subjective and does not always correlate with perfusion adequacy. Lastly, electrolyte imbalances can impact cardiac performance, but they are not immediate indicators of tissue perfusion status post-procedure. Therefore, focusing on peripheral pulses is the most effective way to ensure that the patient is adequately perfused after cardiac catheterization.