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 A
Explanation
A. Plasmapheresis, also known as plasma exchange, is a treatment where blood plasma containing harmful antibodies is removed from the blood and replaced with donor plasma or albumin. This procedure is effective in reducing the severity and duration of symptoms in GBS by removing the antibodies that attack the peripheral nerves. Plasmapheresis is typically recommended within the first 2 weeks of symptom onset to maximize its benefits.
B. Riluzole is a medication that modulates glutamate neurotransmission and is primarily used in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While some studies have explored its potential use in GBS, its efficacy in GBS treatment remains uncertain and it is not considered a standard treatment.
C. Anticholinesterase agents, such as pyridostigmine, are used in conditions characterized by neuromuscular junction dysfunction, such as myasthenia gravis. However, in GBS, where the primary pathology is the demyelination of peripheral nerves rather than neuromuscular junction dysfunction, anticholinesterase agents are not effective and can potentially worsen symptoms.
D. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by herpesviruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It has no role in the treatment of GBS because GBS is not caused by viral infections.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. By surrounding themselves with familiar items, such as photos, favorite objects, or comforting decor from their previous home, the resident can feel more at ease and connected to their past. This approach helps in creating a more homelike atmosphere and reducing feelings of disorientation and stress associated with the move.
B. Isolating the resident and encouraging avoidance of social interactions can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety. Avoiding social interactions may prolong feelings of stress and hinder adaptation to the new living situation.
C. While it's important to manage the frequency and timing of visits to ensure the resident is not overwhelmed, outright restricting visitation hours can be counterproductive. Restricting visitation could increase feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are already common in new residents of long-term care facilities.
D. Using sedative medications should be reserved for situations where non-pharmacological interventions have been unsuccessful and the resident's anxiety or distress is severe and persistent. Sedatives can have side effects, especially in older adults, and should not be the first-line approach for managing relocation stress syndrome.
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