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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While pallor can indicate various health issues such as anemia or low blood flow, it is not the most crucial finding when planning to provide a complete bed bath to a bedfast client.
Choice B rationale
Right-sided paralysis could affect the client’s ability to assist with the bath and could require special care or positioning. However, it is not the most crucial finding in this context.
Choice C rationale
2+ pitting edema of the feet could indicate fluid overload or poor circulation, but it is not the most crucial finding when planning to provide a complete bed bath.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Orthopnea, or difficulty breathing while lying flat, is the most crucial finding in this context. If a client has orthopnea, they may need to be positioned in a way that allows them to breathe comfortably during the bath.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ceasing the use of the nasal cannula would interrupt the client’s oxygen therapy, which could potentially worsen their condition. Therefore, this is not the best course of action.
Choice B rationale
Reducing the flow rate to 1 L/minute may not be appropriate as the client’s oxygen needs may not be met at a lower flow rate. The redness under the chin is likely due to the friction from the cannula tubing, not the flow rate of the oxygen.
Choice C rationale
Applying lubricant to the cannula tubing may not be effective in preventing skin breakdown and could potentially cause additional discomfort or complications for the client.
Choice D rationale
Attaching padding around the cannula tubing can help reduce the friction between the tubing and the skin, which can help prevent skin breakdown. This is the most appropriate action to take in this situation.
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