The nurse is caring for a patient complaining of chest pain related to pericarditis. To help relieve the pain, the nurse should instruct the patient to:
Explanation
• Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, or trauma
• Instructing the patient to lean forward will pull the heart away from the lungs, preventing pericardial irritation caused by friction and contact with the lungs
• Incorrect: Pain related to pericarditis worsens while in any lying position