A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the telemetry unit after experiencing chest pain, dyspnea, and diaphoresis. Which of the following ECG findings is a manifestation of acute myocardial infarction?
The PR intervals are 0.15 second.
The QT interval is equal to the R-R interval.
The QRS intervals are 0.08 second.
The ST segment is above the isoelectric line.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: The PR interval, which is the time from the onset of atrial depolarization (beginning of the P wave) to the onset of ventricular depolarization (beginning of the QRS complex), normally ranges from 0.12 to 0.20 seconds. A PR interval of 0.15 second is within the normal range and does not indicate an acute myocardial infarction.
Choice B reason: The QT interval represents the total time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization. The normal QT interval varies based on heart rate and gender but is typically less than half of the R-R interval in a normal heart rhythm. Therefore, a QT interval equal to the R-R interval is abnormally prolonged, which may suggest other conditions but is not a specific indicator of acute myocardial infarction.
Choice C reason: The QRS complex reflects ventricular depolarization and normally ranges from 0.06 to 0.10 seconds. A QRS interval of 0.08 second is within the normal range and does not suggest an acute myocardial infarction.
Choice D reason: ST segment elevation is a critical finding in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. The ST segment should be at the isoelectric line; elevation above this line is indicative of myocardial injury and is a key diagnostic criterion for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). An elevated ST segment is often seen in the early stages of an acute myocardial infarction and requires immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cough is not commonly associated with atenolol. Atenolol is a beta-blocker used to treat hypertension and is less likely to cause respiratory side effects compared to some other classes of antihypertensive medications.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is a well-documented adverse effect of atenolol. Atenolol works by blocking beta-1 receptors in the heart, which can reduce the heart rate. Normal heart rate ranges for infants (1 to 11 months old) are 80-160 beats per minute (BPM), and for toddlers (1-2 years old), it's 80-130 BPM. Bradycardia would be defined as a heart rate below these normal ranges. It is important for patients starting atenolol to monitor their pulse regularly and report any significant decrease in heart rate to their healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: While constipation can be a side effect of many medications, it is not a common adverse effect of atenolol. Atenolol does not typically affect the gastrointestinal system to the extent that it causes constipation.
Choice D reason: Headache is not a typical adverse effect of atenolol. While headaches can occur for a variety of reasons, they are not directly linked to the pharmacological action of atenolol on the cardiovascular system.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : The statement that the test will be complete in 30 to 60 minutes is incorrect. An ECG is a quick, non-invasive procedure that typically takes only a few minutes to perform.
Choice B reason : The statement about feeling a slight tingling is not accurate for an ECG. This test does not cause any sensations, as it simply records the electrical activity of the heart.
Choice C reason : The mention of radioactivity from dye is not applicable to an ECG. This test does not involve the use of any dyes or radioactive substances. Dyes are typically used in imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs, not ECGs.
Choice D reason : This is the correct statement. For an ECG, electrodes are placed on the patient's chest and extremities to record the electrical activity of the heart. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the heart's rhythm, identify any irregularities, and diagnose conditions.
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