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 B
No explanation
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer is: c. Protect the IV bag from exposure to light.
Explanation: Nitroprusside degrades when exposed to light, so the nurse should protect the IV bag from light exposure to maintain the medication's potency and effectiveness in treating the client's severe hypertension.
Choice a. is wrong because calcium gluconate is used as an antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. Although it may be kept on hand in some facilities, it is not directly related to the administration of nitroprusside.
Choice b. is wrong because attaching an inline filter is not necessary when administering nitroprusside. It is more relevant for medications that require filtration, such as certain chemotherapeutic agents.
Choice d. is wrong because monitoring blood pressure every 2 hours is not frequent enough for a client receiving nitroprusside. The nurse should monitor the client's blood pressure more frequently, such as every 5 to 15 minutes, depending on facility policies and the client's condition.
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