Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of cardiac rehabilitation for patients after a percutaneous coronary intervention?

1. Psychological adaption to role change as a result of coronary disease

2. Secondary prevention of cardiac events and quality of life

3. Reduction in dysrhythmias and resulting changes in activity tolerance

4. Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease through exercise and medication management

The correct answer is: Secondary prevention of cardiac events and quality of life

The correct answer centers on the primary focus of cardiac rehabilitation following a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This process emphasizes secondary prevention of cardiac events, which involves strategies aimed at preventing further episodes of coronary disease after an initial event, such as a heart attack or need for a PCI. In this context, secondary prevention includes medical management, lifestyle modifications, and education tailored to each patient to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular issues. Enhancing quality of life is equally critical; successful rehabilitation programs help patients regain confidence in their physical abilities, improve their physical fitness, and promote a heart-healthy lifestyle. While addressing psychological adaptations to role changes (as mentioned in the first option) is important, it is not the primary goal of rehabilitation focused specifically on post-PCI patients. Similarly, while managing dysrhythmias can be a component of comprehensive cardiac care, that is not the foremost objective of rehabilitation after PCI. Although primary prevention is essential in the broader context of cardiovascular health, it pertains more to individuals who have not yet experienced coronary events, making it less relevant for patients recovering from a PCI. Thus, the emphasis on secondary prevention and improving the patient's quality of life is the cornerstone of post-PCI cardiac rehabilitation.