Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What occurs when the Superior Vena Cava becomes obstructive?

1. Increased heart rate

2. Reduced venous return

3. Increased blood pressure

4. Enhanced oxygen delivery

The correct answer is: Reduced venous return

When there is an obstruction of the Superior Vena Cava (SVC), it leads to reduced venous return to the heart. The SVC is responsible for collecting deoxygenated blood from the upper body and returning it to the right atrium of the heart. When an obstruction occurs, blood flow from the head, neck, and upper extremities is compromised, resulting in increased venous pressure in these areas and a reduction in the volume of blood that can return to the heart. This situation can lead to a range of clinical manifestations, including edema in the face and arms, distention of neck veins, and potentially hemodynamic instability due to decreased preload. The other options do not accurately describe what happens in the context of SVC obstruction. Increased heart rate may occur due to compensatory mechanisms but is not a direct result of the obstruction itself. Increased blood pressure is generally not a feature of SVC obstruction; in fact, the overall hemodynamic effects contribute to challenges in maintaining normal blood pressure. Enhanced oxygen delivery is also unlikely, as reduced venous return affects overall cardiac output and oxygenation status rather than improving it.