Page 1674 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

thallium imaging, and multigated
cardiac blood pool imaging; these tests
can evaluate cardiac motion and
calculate the ejection fraction.
2. Preprocedure interventions
a. Ensure that an informed consent is
obtained.

b. Inform the client that a small

amount of radioisotope will be injected
and that the radiation exposure and
risks are minimal.
3. Postprocedure interventions
a. Assess vital signs.
b. Assess injection site for bleeding or
discomfort.
c. Inform the client that fatigue is possible.
U. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
1. Description
a. This is a noninvasive diagnostic test
that produces an image of the heart or
great vessels through the interaction of
magnetic fields, radiowaves, and
atomic nuclei.
b. It provides information on chamber size
and thickness, valve and ventricular
function, and blood flow through the
great vessels and coronary arteries.
2. Preprocedure interventions
a. Evaluate the client for the presence of a
pacemaker or other implanted items
that present a contraindication to the
test.
b. Ensure that the client has removed all
metallic objects such as a watch,
jewelry, clothing with metal fasteners,
and metal hair fasteners.
c. Inform the client that she or he may
experience claustrophobia while in the
scanner.
V. Electrophysiological studies: An invasive procedure in which a
programmed electrical stimulation of the heart is induced to cause
dysrhythmias and conduction defects; assists in finding an
accurate diagnosis and aids in determining treatment.
W. Electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) scan: Determines
whether calcifications are present in the arteries; a coronary artery
calcium (CAC) score is provided (a score higher than 300 indicates
high risk of myocardial infarction and requires intensive

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