A nurse on a telemetry unit is assessing a client who is receiving continuous cardiac monitoring. The client's heart rate is 69/min and the PR interval is 0.24 seconds. The nurse should interpret this finding as which of the following cardiac rhythms?

Choice A reason:

Ketorolac is incorrect because it is an NSAID that is used for short-term pain relief. It has a higher risk of causing irritation to the stomach lining and is not recommended for clients with a history of peptic ulcers.

Choice B reason:

Acetaminophen is the correct answer. When caring for a client who reports a headache and has a history of a peptic ulcer, the nurse should administer Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) that does not have anti-inflammatory properties. It is a suitable option for pain relief in clients with a history of peptic ulcers because it is less likely to cause irritation to the stomach lining compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Choice C reason

Aspirin is not appropriate: Aspirin is an NSAID with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. Like other NSAIDs, it can increase the risk of stomach irritation and should be avoided in clients with a history of peptic ulcers.

Choice D reason:

Ibuprofen is not the right option: Ibuprofen is another NSAID commonly used for pain relief and reducing inflammation and fever. Like other NSAIDs, it can irritate the stomach lining and is not recommended for clients with a history of peptic ulcers.

The correct answer is choice B. Apply direct pressure to the puncture site.

Choice A rationale:

Applying intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 inch) below the percutaneous skin site is not the best approach. This method may not effectively control the bleeding and could potentially dislodge the introducer sheath.

Choice B rationale:

Applying direct pressure to the puncture site is the most effective way to control bleeding. Direct pressure helps to promote clot formation and reduce blood flow to the area, which is crucial in managing postoperative bleeding.

Choice C rationale:

Elevating the affected extremity above the level of the heart is not appropriate in this situation. While elevation can reduce swelling, it does not address the immediate need to control active bleeding.

Choice D rationale:

Leaving the dressing undisturbed and notifying the physician immediately is not advisable. Immediate action to control the bleeding is necessary before notifying the physician. Delaying intervention could lead to significant blood loss.