Clinical meaning
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) develops when chronic damage from hypertension, atherosclerosis, and smoking weakens the elastic fibers and smooth muscle of the aortic wall, causing progressive dilation. When the wall tension exceeds structural integrity, the aneurysm ruptures, causing massive hemorrhage into the retroperitoneal space. The nurse must recognize early signs of rupture, maintain hemodynamic monitoring as delegated, and report changes immediately.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Age >65 years - Male sex (6:1 ratio) - Smoking history - Hypertension - Family history of AAA - Atherosclerosis - COPD - Connective tissue disorders
Diagnostics: - Monitor vital signs as directed, reporting hypotension or tachycardia - Measure and document abdominal girth as ordered - Monitor urine output and report if <30 mL/hr - Report changes in peripheral pulse quality - Monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit trends as reported