A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has atrial fibrillation and reports dizziness and palpitations. Which of the following should the nurse understand is the cause of these manifestations?
The heart's electrical transmission through the atrioventricular (AV) node is unusually slow.
The heart's electrical signals are rapid, chaotic, and irregular.
An early electrical signal occurs before the expected sinoatrial (SA) node signal.
The SA node sends an electrical signal greater than 100/min.
The Correct Answer is B
A. The heart's electrical transmission through the atrioventricular (AV) node is unusually slow: This statement does not align with the manifestations of dizziness and palpitations in atrial fibrillation. A slow conduction through the AV node would typically manifest as bradycardia or heart block rather than rapid and irregular palpitations.
B. The heart's electrical signals are rapid, chaotic, and irregular: This is the correct answer. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by rapid, chaotic, and irregular electrical signals in the atria, leading to ineffective atrial contractions and an irregular ventricular response. The irregularity and rapidity of the heart rate can lead to symptoms such as palpitations and dizziness.
C. An early electrical signal occurs before the expected sinoatrial (SA) node signal: This statement does not accurately describe the mechanism of atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation involves disorganized electrical activity in the atria, rather than a single early electrical signal.
D. The SA node sends an electrical signal greater than 100/min: While a heart rate greater than 100/min (tachycardia) is commonly associated with atrial fibrillation, this statement does not fully explain the manifestations of dizziness and palpitations. These symptoms are more directly related to the irregularity and chaotic nature of the heart's electrical signals in atrial fibrillation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Severe myopia: Severe myopia, or nearsightedness, is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is characterized by symptoms related to balance and hearing rather than vision.
B. Vertigo: Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, which is a sensation of spinning or dizziness. Vertigo is a hallmark symptom of Meniere's disease and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear.
C. Anosmia: Anosmia refers to a loss of the sense of smell and is not typically associated with Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the vestibular system (balance) and auditory system (hearing) rather than the sense of smell.
D. Photopsia: Photopsia refers to the perception of flashes of light in the visual field and is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is not directly related to visual disturbances.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Lower extremities edematous with decreased pulses and cool to the touch While this finding suggests impaired circulation associated with peripheral artery disease, it does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. However, it requires timely assessment and intervention to prevent further complications.
B. Pain, pallor, and paresthesia in the foot This finding indicates critical limb ischemia, which is a severe complication of peripheral artery disease requiring immediate intervention. Pain, pallor (pale color), and paresthesia (abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness) suggest inadequate blood flow to the affected limb, putting the client at risk for tissue damage and limb loss if not promptly addressed.
C. Murmur auscultated at the left 5th midclavicular line, slight dyspnea, and lower extremity edema These findings are suggestive of cardiac issues such as heart failure rather than immediate complications of peripheral artery disease. While they require attention, they do not signify an urgent need for intervention specific to peripheral artery disease.
D. Presence of an open wound near the ankle with serous drainage and pruritus While an open wound warrants assessment and appropriate wound care, it does not indicate an immediate need for intervention unless there are signs of infection or severe tissue damage. In this scenario, the presentation of pain, pallor, and paresthesia indicates a more urgent need for intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and limb loss.
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