Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

For a patient diagnosed with decreased cardiac output, what is the anticipated outcome of the nursing interventions?

1. Baseline activity level

2. Baseline cardiac function

3. Decrease afterload

4. Reduce anxiety

The correct answer is: Baseline cardiac function

The anticipated outcome of nursing interventions in a patient with decreased cardiac output is to achieve baseline cardiac function. This goal focuses on restoring the heart's ability to pump effectively, which is crucial for maintaining adequate circulation and meeting the body’s metabolic demands. When interventions are successful, the heart can optimize its performance, leading to improvements in systemic perfusion, organ function, and overall health status. Restoring baseline cardiac function involves assessing and addressing factors such as fluid balance, heart rate, myocardial contractility, and vascular resistance. Achieving this outcome can significantly enhance the patient's quality of life and reduce the risk of complications associated with decreased cardiac output. While improving the patient's baseline activity level, decreasing afterload, and reducing anxiety are also important components of holistic care, these aspects are typically secondary to the primary focus of stabilizing cardiac function. An effective nursing approach prioritizes interventions that directly influence the heart's performance and hemodynamic stability.