1. A nurse is assessing a patient with suspected pericarditis. Which 9.

Which laboratory finding would the nurse expect to be elevated

of the following symptoms would the nurse most likely expect to in a patient with acute pericarditis?
find? A) White blood cell count
A) Severe chest pain relieved by sitting forward B) Serum creatinine
B) Chest tightness that worsens with inspiration C) Serum electrolytes
C) Persistent cough D) Hemoglobin
D) Syncope Answer: A) White blood cell count
Answer: A) Severe chest pain relieved by sitting forward Rationale: Inflammation often causes leukocytosis, so an elevated
Rationale: Chest pain associated with pericarditis is typically sharp white blood cell count is expected.
and pleuritic, worsening with lying down and relieved by sitting
forward. 10. A patient presents with symptoms of pericarditis. What is the
priority nursing intervention?
2. In a patient diagnosed with pericarditis, which diagnostic test A) Administer prescribed NSAIDs
would be most definitive for confirming the diagnosis? B) Assess vital signs
A) Chest X-ray C) Obtain a 12-lead ECG
B) Echocardiogram D) Prepare the patient for echocardiography
C) Electrocardiogram (ECG) Answer: B) Assess vital signs
D) Cardiac MRI Rationale: Assessing vital signs helps determine the patient's stability
Answer: B) Echocardiogram and need for immediate interventions.
Rationale: An echocardiogram is key for visualizing pericardial
effusion and assessing the pericardial layers. 11. Which position is often recommended for a patient
experiencing pain from pericarditis?
3. The nurse teaches a patient about the importance of avoiding A) Supine
which of the following substances to help manage pericarditis B) Prone
symptoms? C) Semi-Fowler's
A) Caffeine D) Leaning forward
B) Whole grains Answer: D) Leaning forward
C) Omega-3 fatty acids Rationale: Leaning forward often relieves pain in patients with
D) Fresh fruits pericarditis.
Answer: A) Caffeine
Rationale: Caffeine can increase heart rate and potentially worsen 12. A patient diagnosed with pericarditis is prescribed colchicine.
symptoms in patients with pericarditis. What is the purpose of this medication?
A) To reduce fever
4. A patient with acute pericarditis is treated with nonsteroidal B) To prevent cardiac arrhythmias
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). What is the primary purpose C) To decrease inflammation and prevent recurrence
of this treatment? D) To control blood pressure
A) To prevent infection Answer: C) To decrease inflammation and prevent recurrence
B) To decrease inflammation and relieve pain Rationale: Colchicine is used to reduce inflammation and lower the
C) To improve heart function risk of recurrence in pericarditis.
D) To control arrhythmias
Answer: B) To decrease inflammation and relieve pain 13. A nurse is teaching a patient about pericarditis. Which
Rationale: NSAIDs are primarily used to reduce inflammation and statement by the patient indicates understanding of the condition?
manage pain in pericarditis. A) "I will only take medications when I feel symptoms."
B) "Pericarditis can be caused by infections or autoimmune diseases."
5. A nurse is monitoring a patient with pericarditis for potential C) "It's not necessary to follow up with my doctor after treatment."
complications. Which of the following complications should the D) "I should ignore any changes in my symptoms."
nurse be vigilant for? Answer: B) "Pericarditis can be caused by infections or autoimmune
A) Myocardial infarction diseases."
B) Pericardial effusion Rationale: This statement shows an understanding of the multifactorial
C) Hypertension causes of pericarditis.
D) Aortic dissection
Answer: B) Pericardial effusion 14. A patient with a history of pericarditis presents with fever and
Rationale: Pericarditis can lead to pericardial effusion, which may chills. Which additional symptom should the nurse assess for that
result in cardiac tamponade. could indicate an infectious cause?
A) Nausea
6. During a follow-up visit, a patient with pericarditis reports B) Abdominal pain
persistent chest pain despite medication adherence. The nurse C) New-onset cough
understands that this may indicate which complication? D) Increased fatigue
A) Myocardial infarction Answer: C) New-onset cough
B) Cardiac tamponade Rationale: A new cough may indicate an infectious process affecting
C) Pulmonary embolism the lungs or pleura, potentially linked to pericarditis.
D) Heart failure
Answer: B) Cardiac tamponade 15. In evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for a patient with
Rationale: Persistent chest pain despite treatment may suggest pericarditis, the nurse would monitor which of the following
progression to cardiac tamponade, where fluid accumulation indicators?
compresses the heart. A) Decreased white blood cell count
B) Reduced pain level
7. A patient with pericarditis is experiencing dyspnea. What C) Stable blood pressure
assessment finding would be most concerning? D) Improved ECG findings
A) Elevated heart rate Answer: B) Reduced pain level
B) Dullness to percussion over the lung bases Rationale: The primary goal of treatment in pericarditis is to relieve
C) Decreased oxygen saturation pain and inflammation.
D) Increased respiratory rate
Answer: C) Decreased oxygen saturation 16. A patient with pericarditis is scheduled for a pericardiocentesis.
Rationale: Decreased oxygen saturation indicates impaired gas What is the nurse’s primary responsibility during the procedure?
exchange and may signify worsening respiratory status. A) To prepare the patient for discharge
B) To ensure the patient is NPO for eight hours
8. In educating a patient with pericarditis about lifestyle C) To monitor the patient's vital signs and comfort level
modifications, which statement by the patient indicates a need for D) To administer antibiotics
further teaching? Answer: C) To monitor the patient's vital signs and comfort level
A) "I will avoid strenuous exercise." Rationale: Continuous monitoring of vital signs and comfort is
B) "I can continue drinking alcohol in moderation." essential during invasive procedures like pericardiocentesis.
C) "I should manage stress effectively."
D) "I will follow a heart-healthy diet." 17. After a pericardiocentesis, what is the most important nursing
Answer: B) "I can continue drinking alcohol in moderation." intervention?
Rationale: Alcohol can exacerbate symptoms and should be avoided A) Encourage deep breathing exercises
during treatment for pericarditis. B) Assess for signs of cardiac tamponade
C) Provide discharge instructions 26. In the case of a patient with pericarditis, the nurse observes ST
D) Administer pain medication elevation in leads II, III, and aVF on the ECG. What does this
Answer: B) Assess for signs of cardiac tamponade finding suggest?
Rationale: Following the procedure, monitoring for complications A) Myocardial ischemia
such as cardiac tamponade is critical. B) Pericarditis
C) Atrial fibrillation
18. A patient with pericarditis is prescribed corticosteroids. What D) Heart failure
is the primary reason for this treatment? Answer: B) Pericarditis
A) To improve cardiac contractility Rationale: ST elevation in these leads is commonly associated with
B) To manage severe inflammation pericarditis.
C) To control blood sugar levels
D) To prevent myocardial ischemia 27. Which medication class is primarily used to manage pain in
Answer: B) To manage severe inflammation patients with pericarditis?
Rationale: Corticosteroids are used for their potent anti-inflammatory A) Anticoagulants
effects in cases of severe pericarditis. B) Beta-blockers
C) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
19. When documenting a patient’s history of pericarditis, which D) Diuretics
information is most relevant to include? Answer: C) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
A) Family history of hypertension Rationale: NSAIDs are the first-line treatment for pain relief in
B) Recent infections or illnesses pericarditis.
C) Current medication adherence
D) Lifestyle habits 28. A patient with pericarditis asks about the potential for long-
Answer: B) Recent infections or illnesses term complications. What should the nurse explain?
Rationale: Recent infections can be a contributing factor in the A) Pericarditis typically resolves without issues.
development of pericarditis. B) There is a risk of recurrent pericarditis and chronic conditions.
C) Complications are rare and usually self-limiting.
20. A patient is admitted with pericarditis secondary to renal D) The condition leads directly to myocardial infarction.
failure. Which laboratory value would the nurse anticipate to be Answer: B) There is a risk of recurrent pericarditis and chronic
elevated? conditions.
A) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) Rationale: Patients with pericarditis may experience recurrences and
B) Albumin complications such as chronic constrictive pericarditis.
C) Hemoglobin
D) Sodium 29. In patients with pericarditis, which vital sign change may
Answer: A) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) indicate a deterioration of the condition?
Rationale: In renal failure, BUN levels rise due to impaired kidney A) Increase in blood pressure
function. B) Bradycardia
C) Tachycardia
21. Which clinical manifestation is commonly associated with D) Increased temperature
chronic constrictive pericarditis? Answer: C) Tachycardia
A) Rapid weight loss Rationale: Tachycardia can indicate worsening inflammation or
B) Chest pain with inspiration distress in patients with pericarditis.
C) Peripheral edema
D) Hemoptysis 30. A patient presents with pericarditis and has a history of lupus.
Answer: C) Peripheral edema Which aspect of care is most important?
Rationale: Chronic constrictive pericarditis can lead to heart failure A) Monitor renal function closely
signs, including peripheral edema due to impaired venous return. B) Increase fluid intake
C) Educate about lifestyle changes
22. In educating a patient with pericarditis about potential dietary D) Provide psychological support
changes, which food should be avoided? Answer: A) Monitor renal function closely
A) Leafy greens Rationale: Lupus can affect renal function, so close monitoring is
B) Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids crucial in this patient population.
C) High-sodium processed foods
D) Whole grains 31. Which symptom should prompt immediate medical attention in
Answer: C) High-sodium processed foods a patient with pericarditis?
Rationale: High-sodium foods can exacerbate fluid retention and A) Mild chest discomfort
should be limited in patients with pericarditis. B) Sudden onset of severe chest pain
C) Fatigue
23. A nurse is assessing a patient with suspected pericarditis. D) Low-grade fever
Which finding is least likely to be associated with this condition? Answer: B) Sudden onset of severe chest pain
A) Pericardial friction rub Rationale: Sudden severe chest pain could indicate complications such
B) Jugular vein distension as myocardial infarction or cardiac tamponade.
C) Hypotension
D) Bradycardia 32. What is the expected effect of corticosteroids in the treatment of
Answer: D) Bradycardia pericarditis?
Rationale: Tachycardia is more commonly associated with pericarditis A) To prevent infection
due to pain and anxiety. B) To improve oxygenation
C) To reduce inflammation and pain
24. Which of the following is a potential long-term complication of D) To stabilize blood pressure
untreated pericarditis? Answer: C) To reduce inflammation and pain
A) Ventricular septal defect Rationale: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory agents used to
B) Chronic pericardial effusion manage inflammation and pain in pericarditis.
C) Pulmonary hypertension
D) Mitral valve prolapse 33. A patient with pericarditis is being educated about their
Answer: B) Chronic pericardial effusion condition. Which statement by the patient shows a need for further
Rationale: Untreated pericarditis can lead to chronic effusions, which teaching?
may require surgical intervention. A) "I need to monitor my symptoms closely."
B) "I can continue my regular exercise routine."
25. A patient with recurrent pericarditis is being evaluated for an C) "I will report any new symptoms immediately."
underlying cause. Which test would be most useful? D) "I need to follow up with my healthcare provider regularly."
A) Chest X-ray Answer: B) "I can continue my regular exercise routine."
B) Thyroid function tests Rationale: Patients with pericarditis may need to limit physical
C) CT scan of the abdomen activity, especially during acute episodes.
D) Serologic tests for autoimmune diseases
Answer: D) Serologic tests for autoimmune diseases 34. The nurse is explaining the risk factors for developing
Rationale: Autoimmune conditions can cause recurrent pericarditis, pericarditis. Which of the following factors should be included?
making serologic tests important for evaluation. A) Age over 50
B) History of myocardial infarction
C) Family history of heart disease 43. A patient is experiencing a pericardial friction rub. Where
D) All of the above should the nurse place the stethoscope to best auscultate this
Answer: D) All of the above sound?
Rationale: All mentioned factors can increase the risk of developing A) Over the apex of the heart
pericarditis. B) Over the left sternal border
C) At the base of the heart
35. A patient diagnosed with pericarditis is taking warfarin. What D) Over the epigastric area
should the nurse monitor closely? Answer: B) Over the left sternal border
A) Electrolyte levels Rationale: The pericardial friction rub is best heard at the left sternal
B) INR and signs of bleeding border with the patient sitting up and leaning forward.
C) Blood pressure
D) Heart rate 44. A nurse is preparing a patient for discharge after treatment for
Answer: B) INR and signs of bleeding pericarditis. Which instruction is most important to provide?
Rationale: Patients on warfarin require close monitoring of INR to A) "You can resume normal activities immediately."
prevent bleeding complications. B) "Make sure to follow up with your healthcare provider as
scheduled."
36. A patient with pericarditis reports increased fatigue and C) "You don’t need to monitor your symptoms anymore."
shortness of breath. What is the nurse's priority action? D) "It’s important to stop all medications."
A) Assess lung sounds Answer: B) "Make sure to follow up with your healthcare provider as
B) Check the patient’s pulse scheduled."
C) Notify the physician Rationale: Regular follow-up is essential for monitoring recovery and
D) Provide oxygen preventing complications.
Answer: A) Assess lung sounds
Rationale: Assessing lung sounds helps determine if there is an 45. A nurse is caring for a patient with constrictive pericarditis.
underlying respiratory issue or fluid overload. Which finding is most characteristic of this condition?
A) Pulsus paradoxus
37. Which sign on a physical exam would indicate potential cardiac B) Peripheral edema
tamponade in a patient with pericarditis? C) Jugular venous distension
A) Hypotension D) All of the above
B) Fever Answer: D) All of the above
C) Hypertension Rationale: Constrictive pericarditis can lead to all these findings due to
D) Tachycardia impaired filling of the heart.
Answer: A) Hypotension
Rationale: Cardiac tamponade can lead to hypotension due to 46. A patient diagnosed with pericarditis is advised to rest. What is
decreased cardiac output. the primary rationale for this recommendation?
A) To prevent further complications
38. A nurse is caring for a patient with pericarditis. Which B) To promote relaxation
intervention is most appropriate to help alleviate discomfort? C) To decrease the workload on the heart
A) Applying heat to the chest D) To facilitate social interaction
B) Positioning the patient upright and leaning forward Answer: C) To decrease the workload on the heart
C) Encouraging deep breathing exercises Rationale: Resting helps reduce the workload on the heart, allowing
D) Administering cold compresses for better healing.
Answer: B) Positioning the patient upright and leaning forward
Rationale: This position can help relieve the sharp chest pain often 47. The nurse is aware that which of the following is a common
associated with pericarditis. cause of viral pericarditis?
A) Streptococcus
39. Which of the following findings would indicate that a patient’s B) Influenza virus
pericarditis is resolving? C) Clostridium
A) Decreased chest pain and fever D) E. coli
B) Increased blood pressure Answer: B) Influenza virus
C) Elevated white blood cell count Rationale: Viral infections, particularly by the influenza virus, are
D) Persistent jugular vein distension known causes of pericarditis.
Answer: A) Decreased chest pain and fever
Rationale: Improvement in symptoms, including chest pain and fever, 48. A patient in the clinic is being evaluated for pericarditis. Which
suggests resolution of the condition. question is most important for the nurse to ask?
A) "Have you had any recent illnesses?"
40. When reviewing a patient’s medications for pericarditis, which B) "What medications are you currently taking?"
class should be used cautiously due to the risk of gastrointestinal C) "Do you have a family history of heart disease?"
bleeding? D) "How much exercise do you get weekly?"
A) Opioids Answer: A) "Have you had any recent illnesses?"
B) Anticoagulants Rationale: Recent illnesses can be a significant indicator of the
C) NSAIDs underlying cause of pericarditis.
D) Corticosteroids
Answer: C) NSAIDs 49. In managing a patient with pericarditis, the nurse recognizes
Rationale: NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, that which medication should be avoided due to its side effects?
necessitating caution in their use. A) Aspirin
B) Ibuprofen
41. A nurse is discussing the importance of follow-up care with a C) Acetaminophen
patient who has recovered from pericarditis. What should be D) Prednisone
emphasized? Answer: D) Prednisone
A) To discontinue all medications Rationale: While corticosteroids can be used, they have significant
B) To monitor for signs of recurrence side effects, including immune suppression and fluid retention.
C) To avoid all physical activity
D) To ignore mild symptoms 50. A patient with a history of pericarditis is concerned about the
Answer: B) To monitor for signs of recurrence likelihood of recurrence. What is the nurse's best response?
Rationale: Follow-up care is crucial for monitoring potential A) "Recurrences are very rare."
recurrences of pericarditis. B) "You should expect them to happen frequently."
C) "With proper management, the risk can be minimized."
42. The nurse recognizes that which patient is at the highest risk D) "There’s nothing you can do to prevent them."
for developing pericarditis? Answer: C) "With proper management, the risk can be minimized."
A) A 25-year-old with asthma Rationale: Patients can reduce the risk of recurrence with appropriate
B) A 45-year-old with a recent viral infection medical management and follow-up care.
C) A 70-year-old with chronic kidney disease
D) A 60-year-old with controlled hypertension
Answer: C) A 70-year-old with chronic kidney disease
Rationale: Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of pericarditis due
to potential uremic complications.