The nurse is caring for a patient with lung cancer who is receiving chemotherapy. Which assessment finding suggests that the patient is experiencing pericardial effusion?
a. Bruising and tarry stools
b. Edema and shortness of breath
c. Nausea and decreased bowel sounds
d. Peripheral numbness and tingling
ANS: B
B. Pericardial effusion, or cardiac tamponade, is a condition usually caused by direct invasion of the cancer, causing the pericardial sac to fill with fluid. Nursing care for the patient with cardiac tamponade includes monitoring respiratory status, vital signs, and intake and output; keeping the head of the bed elevated for maximum lung expansion; and assessing for edema.
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