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 ["A","E","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Contractures are a risk for this client due to the lack of movement and constant positioning on one side. Contractures occur when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments shorten and tighten, limiting range of motion and flexibility. This can be a result of prolonged immobility or lack of use of the muscles.
Choice B rationale:
Calcium resorption is not a risk for this client. Calcium resorption refers to the process where bone tissue is broken down and calcium is released into the bloodstream. This process is not directly related to immobility or multiple sclerosis.
Choice C rationale:
Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, is also not a direct risk for this client. While immobility can lead to bone loss over time, it does not directly cause hypocalcemia.
Choice D rationale:
Diarrhea is not a risk for this client based on the information provided. Diarrhea can be a symptom of many conditions but there is no indication in the scenario that this client is at risk.
Choice E rationale:
Urinary stasis is a risk for this client due to their immobility. When a person is immobile, urine can pool in the bladder, creating an environment where bacteria can grow, potentially leading to urinary tract infections.
Choice F rationale:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not a direct risk for this client based on the information provided. While chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis can indirectly contribute to hypertension through stress or medication side effects, it’s not directly caused by immobility or multiple sclerosis.
Choice G rationale:
Pressure injury is a significant risk for this client due to their constant positioning on one side and refusal to change positions. Pressure injuries occur when there is prolonged pressure on one area of the body, restricting blood flow and leading to tissue damage and necrosis.
Choice H rationale:
Atelectasis, or collapse of part of the lung, is also a risk for this client due to their immobility. When a person is immobile, they may take shallow breaths which do not fully inflate the lungs, leading to areas of collapse.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choiceA. Lift the penis so that it is perpendicular to the client’s body.
Choice A rationale:
Lifting the penis so that it is perpendicular to the client’s body straightens the urethra, making it easier to insert the catheter without causing trauma.
Choice B rationale:
While cleansing the tip of the penis in a circular motion is important for maintaining aseptic technique, it is not the specific action that facilitates the insertion of the catheter.
Choice C rationale:
Picking up the catheter 13 cm (5 in) from its tip is not a standard practice.The nurse should hold the catheter closer to the tip to maintain control and ensure accurate insertion.
Choice D rationale:
Inflating the catheter balloon before insertion can cause trauma to the urethra and is not recommended.The balloon should only be inflated once the catheter is correctly positioned in the bladder.
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