Examine the attached ECG image and identify the type of arrhythmia present.
The ECG shows a series of wide QRS complexes occurring at a rapid rate.
Supraventricular Tachycardia.
Ventricular Tachycardia.
Atrial Fibrillation.
First Degree AV Block.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Supraventricular tachycardia usually presents with narrow QRS complexes originating above the ventricles, unlike the wide QRS complexes seen in this ECG, indicating a ventricular origin for the arrhythmia.
Choice B rationale
Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by a rapid rate and wide QRS complexes. This rhythm originates in the ventricles and can lead to a decrease in cardiac output and possible deterioration into ventricular fibrillation.
Choice C rationale
Atrial fibrillation presents with an irregularly irregular rhythm without distinct P waves and narrow QRS complexes. This is not consistent with the wide, rapid QRS complexes seen in the provided ECG.
Choice D rationale
First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval (>200ms) without changes to the QRS complex morphology. This does not align with the presentation of wide QRS complexes at a rapid rate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
ECG tests usually take 5 to 10 minutes to complete. The patient's chest pain necessitates a quick assessment, and prolonged testing could delay urgent care.
Choice B rationale
Electrodes applied to the chest and extremities detect the electrical activity of the heart, necessary for accurate ECG readings and diagnosing potential cardiac issues.
Choice C rationale
The ECG procedure does not typically cause tingling sensations. It involves passive measurement of electrical signals, making this statement inaccurate and potentially alarming to the patient.
Choice D rationale
ECG tests do not involve dye or radioactivity. This confusion may arise from nuclear stress tests, which are different procedures for evaluating heart function.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The first upward deflection in an ECG represents the P wave, indicating atrial depolarization. It precedes the QRS complex and corresponds to the electrical activity associated with atrial contraction, initiating the cardiac cycle.
Choice B rationale
The peak of the first wave corresponds to the R wave, not the P wave. The R wave is a part of the QRS complex, representing ventricular depolarization, and is not associated with atrial depolarization.
Choice C rationale
The downward deflection following the peak is the S wave, part of the QRS complex, indicating ventricular depolarization. It is not related to the P wave, which specifically represents atrial depolarization.
Choice D rationale
The second upward deflection is the T wave, which represents ventricular repolarization. It follows the QRS complex and is not associated with atrial depolarization or the P wave.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
