A patient with acute pericarditis reports sharp chest pain that becomes worse when lying flat. Which position should the nurse encourage?
Correct answer: A. Sitting upright and leaning forward
- A. Sitting upright and leaning forward
- B. Lying flat with legs elevated
- C. Right lateral position with knees flexed
- D. Trendelenburg position with the head low
Explanation
Sitting upright and leaning forward often decreases the inflamed pericardial surfaces rubbing against each other and may relieve pain. Lying flat can worsen discomfort, while the other positions do not specifically reduce pericardial pain.
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About Cardiovascular Nursing
Covers assessment and nursing care for hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, valvular disease and dysrhythmias. It includes interpreting vital signs and ECG findings, managing chest pain, monitoring cardiac medicines, recognizing complications and distinguishing left-sided from right-sided heart failure.
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