Sample interview questions: How do you assess and manage potential complications related to patients with ventricular assist devices (VADs)?
Sample answer:
Assessing Potential Complications Related to Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs):
- Hemorrhage:
- Regularly monitoring for signs of active bleeding or hematoma formation at the surgical site.
- Assessing for unusual bruising, swelling, or ecchymosis.
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Evaluating the patient’s vital signs and respiratory status for indications of hypovolemia (e.g., tachycardia, hypotension).
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Infection:
- Monitoring for signs and symptoms of infection, including fever, chills, leukocytosis, and localized inflammation.
- Inspecting the VAD surgical site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
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Ensuring proper hand hygiene and sterile technique when performing VAD-related procedures.
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Thromboembolism:
- Assessing the patient’s risk factors for thromboembolism, such as atrial fibrillation, history of deep vein thrombosis, or prolonged immobilization.
- Monitoring for symptoms of thromboembolism, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and unilateral swelling of an extremity.
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Administering anticoagulants as prescribed to prevent thromboembolism.
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Right Heart Failure:
- Monitoring for signs and symptoms of right heart failure, such as jugular venous distension, peripheral edema, and hepatomegaly.
- Assessing the patient’s pulmonary artery pressure and cardiac output to evaluate right ventricular function.
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Optimizing medical therapy for right heart failure, including diuretics, vasodilators, and inotropes.
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VAD Malfunction:
- Monitoring the VAD console continuously for alarms or abnormal readings.
- Assessing the patient’s vital signs, hemodynamic parameters, and neurological status for signs of VAD malfunction.
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Collaborating with the VAD team to troubleshoot and manage VAD malfunction promptly.
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Psychological and Emotional Distress:
- Assessing the patient’s emotional well-being, including anxiety, depression, and coping mechanisms.
- Providing emotional supp… Read full answer
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