JBL EMT Practice Exam

A patient with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) tells you that the device's pump flow is continuous. Which of the following should you expect to encounter during your assessment?

1. Absence of a palpable pulse

2. Distention of the jugular veins

3. High systolic blood pressure

4. Low diastolic blood pressure

The correct answer is: Absence of a palpable pulse

Patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) have continuous pump flow, which can result in a reduced or absent palpable pulse due to the continuous flow provided by the device. This continuous flow can mask the typical arterial pulse that healthcare providers usually assess. Therefore, encountering an absence of a palpable pulse in a patient with an LVAD is a common finding during assessment. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because distention of the jugular veins, high systolic blood pressure, and low diastolic blood pressure are not typically associated with LVADs. It is essential to remember the unique hemodynamic effects of LVADs on the cardiovascular system when caring for a patient with this device.