A client on a cardiac unit is experiencing atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response of 140 beats per minute. The client is dizzy, short of breath, and hypotensive. Medications have not been effective at reducing the client's heart rate. Which procedure would the nurse anticipate to be performed for this client?
Defibrillation
Coronary artery stent placement
Echocardiogram
Synchronized cardioversion
The Correct Answer is D
A. Defibrillation is used to treat life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, where the heart is in a chaotic rhythm without an effective contraction.
B. This procedure is performed to relieve significant blockages in coronary arteries that are causing myocardial ischemia or infarction. While coronary artery disease can contribute to cardiac issues, it is not the primary intervention for treating atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response and associated symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, and hypotension.
C. While an echocardiogram may be useful in assessing the overall cardiac function and structure, it is not an immediate intervention for the acute management of atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response and unstable symptoms.
D. Synchronized cardioversion is a procedure used to convert certain types of rapid arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, to a normal sinus rhythm by delivering a synchronized electrical shock to the heart at a specific point in the cardiac cycle.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects, especially in the head. Most headaches associated with nitroglycerin are mild and transient. Patients are generally advised to continue using the medication as prescribed unless the headache is severe or persistent.
B. Nitroglycerin tablets are used for the immediate relief of angina symptoms. If the first tablet does not adequately relieve chest pain within 5 minutes, the patient can take a second tablet. If the pain persists after the second tablet, emergency medical attention should be sought. However, it's important to note that the maximum number of tablets that can be taken within a short period should be specified by the healthcare provider, typically 2 or 3 tablets in 15 to 30 minutes.
C. Nitroglycerin can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing up. This can lead to dizziness or fainting. Therefore, patients should be advised to stand up slowly after taking nitroglycerin to minimize the risk of falls or injury.
D. Nitroglycerin tablets are sensitive to light, heat, and moisture, which can reduce their effectiveness over time. Therefore, it's recommended to replace nitroglycerin tablets every 3 to 6 months to ensure potency and effectiveness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Medicare does cover individuals under 65 years old who have end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and meet certain criteria.
B. There are programs that allow individuals with both Medicare and low income to qualify for Medicaid, which can help cover additional healthcare costs that Medicare may not fully cover.
C. While Medicare does provide significant coverage for healthcare services, it is not entirely free of out- of-pocket costs. Medicare Part A typically covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care services with no premiums for most people.
D. Medicare is indeed federally-funded health insurance primarily for individuals aged 65 and older. It also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with ESRD.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
