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
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Acknowledging the difficulty of caring for a terminally ill person is empathetic, but it doesn't offer a solution to the son's problem. The nurse should provide practical assistance or information to help alleviate the son's stress and fatigue.
Choice B rationale:
(Correct Choice) Offering information about respite care is appropriate in this situation. Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Providing information about available resources can empower the son to make decisions that support his well-being and the well-being of his mother.
Choice C rationale:
Suggesting a sleeping pill before bed might not be appropriate without a healthcare provider's assessment. Additionally, relying on medication alone might not address the underlying stress and fatigue the son is experiencing.
Choice D rationale:
Praising the son for his caregiving efforts is supportive, but it doesn't offer a solution to his lack of sleep. While encouragement and recognition are important, addressing the son's immediate need for rest and support should be the priority.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Upper extremity hypotension is not a common finding in coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta typically results in narrowing of the aorta, leading to decreased blood flow to the lower part of the body. This can cause weak or absent femoral pulses and lower extremity hypotension, not upper extremity hypotension.
Choice B rationale:
Frequent nosebleeds are not directly associated with coarctation of the aorta. The symptoms of coarctation of the aorta are primarily related to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to symptoms such as weak femoral pulses, lower extremity hypotension, and leg cramping or pain.
Choice D rationale:
Increased intracranial pressure is not a typical finding in coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta affects blood flow to the lower part of the body and does not directly impact intracranial pressure.
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