When assessing the patient with pericardial effusion, the nurse will assess for pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus is characterized by what assessment finding?
A) A diastolic blood pressure that is lower during exhalation
B) A diastolic blood pressure that is higher during inhalation
C) A systolic blood pressure that is higher during exhalation
D) A systolic blood pressure that is lower during inhalation
Ans: D
Feedback:
Systolic blood pressure that is markedly lower during inhalation is called pulsus paradoxus. The difference in systolic pressure between the point that is heard during exhalation and the point that is heard during inhalation is measured. Pulsus paradoxus exceeding 10 mm Hg is abnormal.
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