A nurse is preparing to administer dopamine hydrochloride 4 mcg/kg/min via continuous infusion.

Available is dopamine hydrochloride in a solution of 800 mg in a 250 mL bag.

The client weighs 80 kg. The nurse should set the IV infusion to deliver how many mL/hr? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number.

Use a leading zero if it applies.)

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.

Choice A rationale:

A swollen area on the calf can indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication of immobility. Immobilization can lead to blood stasis in the veins, increasing the risk of clot formation. DVT can result in severe complications, such as pulmonary embolism, making it a critical concern that requires immediate attention.

Choice B rationale:

Increased blood pressure is not a direct complication of immobility. However, immobility can contribute to hypertension over time due to factors such as weight gain and reduced cardiovascular fitness. While hypertension is a concern, it is not an acute complication of immobility that necessitates immediate intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Decreased serum calcium levels are not a direct complication of immobility. Immobility can lead to bone density loss and potential fractures due to reduced weight-bearing activities, but it does not cause an acute decrease in serum calcium levels.

Choice D rationale:

Urinary frequency is not a typical complication of immobility. Immobility can affect the urinary system, potentially leading to urinary stasis and increased risk of urinary tract infections, but urinary frequency is not a direct result of immobility.