A nurse is caring for a client who is alert and oriented and is receiving continuous ECG monitoring.
The cardiac rhythm strip shows a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate.
The nurse should identify the cardiac rhythm as which of the following?
Atrial fibrillation.
Ventricular asystole.
Second-degree heart block.
Sinus tachycardia.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The described cardiac rhythm with a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate is consistent with atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the atria quiver instead of contracting effectively, leading to an irregular and often rapid heart rate. This rhythm is characterized by the absence of distinct P waves on the ECG.
Choice B rationale:
Ventricular asystole is a flatline on the ECG, indicating the absence of electrical activity in the heart. It is a life-threatening arrhythmia and requires immediate intervention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols.
Choice C rationale:
Second-degree heart block is characterized by intermittent failure of atrial electrical impulses to conduct to the ventricles. This results in occasional dropped beats and a varying heart rate. It is not consistent with the described ECG findings in the question.
Choice D rationale:
Sinus tachycardia is a regular, fast heart rate originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node. In sinus tachycardia, P waves are present, indicating that the electrical impulses originate in the SA node. The described ECG findings do not match the characteristics of sinus tachycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. Contractions.
Choice A Reason: Hypertension Hypertension in pregnancy is a condition that can occur independently of an amniocentesis and is typically monitored throughout the pregnancy. It is characterized by a sustained high blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher. While hypertension is a concern in pregnancy, it is not a direct complication of amniocentesis. Normal ranges for blood pressure in the third trimester are 101.6 to 143.5 mmHg systolic and 62.4 to 94.7 mmHg diastolic.
Choice B Reason: Vomiting Vomiting is not a typical complication following an amniocentesis. It may be associated with other conditions during pregnancy such as hyperemesis gravidarum or gastrointestinal disturbances but is not directly related to the procedure of amniocentesis.
Choice C Reason: Epigastric Pain Epigastric pain is typically associated with conditions like preeclampsia or other gastrointestinal issues in pregnancy, not with amniocentesis. It is characterized by pain in the upper abdomen and is not a common complication post-amniocentesis.
Choice D Reason: Contractions After an amniocentesis, especially at 33 weeks of gestation, monitoring for contractions is crucial because they can indicate preterm labor, which is a known risk associated with the procedure. The normal range for contractions would be none to infrequent Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are not regular and do not signify labor.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An altered level of consciousness is a common finding in clients with Alzheimer's disease. This may range from mild confusion to severe cognitive impairment. It is caused by the degeneration of brain cells and affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
Choice B rationale:
Rapid mood swings are not specific to Alzheimer's disease. While mood changes can occur, they are not typically characterized by rapid swings. Mood disturbances may include depression, apathy, or irritability, but these symptoms are not unique to Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C rationale:
Excessive motor activity is not a typical finding in clients with Alzheimer's disease. Instead, clients often experience a decline in motor skills and coordination as the disease progresses. Restlessness or agitation might occur, but excessive motor activity is not a characteristic feature.
Choice D rationale:
Failure to recognize familiar objects, people, or places is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease. This is due to the damage and loss of nerve cells in the brain. As the disease advances, clients may have difficulty recognizing even close family members or their own reflection in the mirror.
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