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 C
Explanation
The correct answer is c. Use an albuterol inhaler.
Choice A reason: Eating a meal before postural drainage is not recommended because it can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting due to the positions required for the procedure.
Choice B reason: Taking pancrelipase is important for aiding digestion in cystic fibrosis patients, but it is not specifically related to the preparation for postural drainage.
Choice C reason: Bronchodilators like albuterol are used before airway clearance techniques to open the airways, making it easier to clear mucus during postural drainage.
Choice D reason: While maintaining oral hygiene is important for overall health, it is not a preparation step for postural drainage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. “I will hang a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours.”
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring the client’s blood glucose level every 8 hours is important, but it is not the best indicator of understanding the TPN procedure. Blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly, but the frequency can vary based on the client’s condition and physician’s orders.
Choice B rationale:
Hanging a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours is correct. This practice helps prevent infection and ensures the client receives the correct formulation of nutrients.
Choice C rationale:
Increasing the rate of the TPN infusion to ensure the correct amount is given is incorrect. The rate of TPN infusion should be strictly controlled and adjusted only by a physician’s order to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining the client’s weight every other day is important for monitoring nutritional status, but it does not directly indicate an understanding of the TPN procedure. Daily weights are often recommended to closely monitor the client’s response to TPN.
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