Question

You are a young nursing student and are called upon to explain how each of the following tests or procedures might be helpful in evaluating a patient with heart disease: blood pressure measurement, determination of blood lipid and cholesterol levels, electrocardiogram, chest X ray. How would you respond?

Answer 1

Blood pressure Measurement:

Measurement of blood pressure is essential to analyze the systolic and diastolic pressure of the individuals. Increase of blood pressure and variability in systolic and diastolic pressure is an important factor to detect the risk of cardiovascular disease. Based on the BP measurement, the patient has classified with the type of hypertension and the level of risk for cardiovascular disease.

Determination of blood lipid and cholesterol level:

Determination of blood and cholesterol level is necessary to protect against cardiovascular disease. Increased level of LDL denotes that the patient is at risk for the building of plaques and heart attack. Increased triglycerides levels raise the risk of coronary artery disease. Determination of these levels helps to change the diet pattern, provide health education, and minimize the risk of coronary artery disease.

Electrocardiogram:

It is a non-invasive procedure which helps to determine the heart structure and rhythm. Abnormalities in the electric signals and irregular heart rhythm help to identify the exact problem of the heart and to treat accordingly. It is considered as the most important test in the cardiovascular assessment.

Chest X-ray:

Chest X-ray shows the images of the heart. It shows the clear view of the size of the heart, blood vessels, airway, presence of any fluid in the thorax, etc. It also helps to evaluate the presence of any devices in the heart.