A client with atrial fibrillation is scheduled for an elective cardioversion.
The nurse prepares for the procedure by inserting two intravenous (IV) catheters and connecting the monitoring lead wires to the client.
Which action is most crucial for the nurse to take before initiating the cardioversion?
Activate the synchronization mode.
Choose a monitor lead with a tall R wave.
Administer the prescribed sedative.
Verify the prothrombin time (PT).
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Activating the synchronization mode is important during cardioversion to avoid delivering a shock during the vulnerable period of cardiac repolarization, which could potentially cause a life-threatening arrhythmia. However, it is not the most crucial action.
Choice B rationale
Choosing a monitor lead with a tall R wave can help ensure that the cardioverter-defibrillator can sense the patient’s intrinsic cardiac activity. However, this is not the most crucial action.
Choice C rationale
Administering the prescribed sedative is the most crucial action before initiating cardioversion. Sedation is necessary to ensure patient comfort and cooperation during the procedure, as cardioversion can be painful.
Choice D rationale
Verifying the prothrombin time (PT) is important in patients receiving anticoagulation therapy, as atrial fibrillation increases the risk of thrombus formation. However, it is not the most crucial action before initiating cardioversion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to honor commitments, it’s also crucial to recognize when the caregiving role becomes too stressful or burdensome. Insisting on keeping a promise despite significant stress can lead to caregiver burnout.
Choice B rationale
This statement is not accurate. Moving a loved one into a care facility is sometimes the best decision for both the caregiver and the care recipient. It does not reflect a lack of love, but rather a recognition of the need for professional help.
Choice C rationale
This statement is not accurate. Caring for an adult, especially one with health issues, can be more challenging than raising a child in many ways.
Choice D rationale
Involving the care recipient in the decision-making process can help maintain their autonomy and dignity. It can also make the caregiving process more manageable.
Choice E rationale
It’s normal to have mixed feelings about a loved one for whom you’re providing care. Acknowledging these feelings can be an important step in managing caregiver stress.
Choice F rationale
This statement is not accurate. Setting boundaries is an important part of self-care and can help prevent caregiver burnout.
Choice G rationale
This statement is not accurate. Setting boundaries is an important part of self-care and can help prevent caregiver burnout.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring leukocytes, neutrophils, and thyroxine is not the most crucial for a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). While these lab values can provide information about the patient’s immune function and thyroid function, they do not directly relate to the patient’s renal function.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring serum potassium, calcium, and phosphorus levels is crucial for a patient with ESRD. These electrolytes are typically excreted by the kidneys, and their levels can become imbalanced in patients with ESRD. Imbalances can lead to serious complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias and bone disease.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit is important for a patient with ESRD, as these patients often develop anemia due to decreased erythropoietin production by the kidneys. However, these are not the only lab values that should be monitored in these patients.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature is important for all patients, but these are not specific to patients with ESRD. Patients with ESRD are at risk for electrolyte imbalances, which can affect cardiac function, making monitoring of serum potassium, calcium, and phosphorus levels more crucial.
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