How do you handle patients who require emergency pericardial window creation?

Sample interview questions: How do you handle patients who require emergency pericardial window creation?

Sample answer:

1. Assess the Patient’s Condition:
2. Evaluate the patient’s vital signs, level of consciousness, and cardiac status.
3. Monitor for signs of cardiac tamponade, such as pulsus paradoxus, muffled heart sounds, and distended neck veins.
4. Order an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess for pericardial effusion and electrical alternans.

5. Administer oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids as needed.

6. Prepare the Patient:

7. Obtain informed consent from the patient or their legal guardian.
8. Position the patient supine or semi-recumbent with the head elevated.
9. Shave and prep the subxiphoid region.

10. Apply sterile drapes to maintain a sterile field.

11. Insert a Pericardial Window:

12. Locate the xiphoid process and make a small incision just below it.
13. Use a blunt-tipped needle or trocar to penetrate the pericardium.
14. Insert a chest tube or catheter into the pericardial space.

15. Connect the chest tube to a drainage system and monitor for fluid drainage.

16. Monitor the Patient:

17. Monitor the patient’s vital signs, ECG, and fluid output closely. Read full answer

    Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_23/Emergency%20Room%20%28ER%29%20Nurse