Rhythm Strip
A client comes to the emergency department (ED) complaining of a "racing heart and nervousness." The client's blood pressure is 106/60. The cardiac monitor displays the rhythm below. Which nursing action should be performed first?
Prepare the client for electrical cardioversion
Perform a carotid massage on the client.
Administer lidocaine 1mg/hour.
Ask the client if they drank a caffeinated beverage
The Correct Answer is B
A. Prepare the client for electrical cardioversion: Electrical cardioversion is reserved for unstable patients (e.g., hypotension, altered mental status, chest pain, or signs of shock). This client, while tachycardic, has a blood pressure of 106/60, which indicates relative stability. Cardioversion is not the first-line intervention in stable supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).
B. Perform a carotid massage on the client: Carotid sinus massage is a vagal maneuver used to slow conduction through the AV node and can terminate paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). It is a non-invasive, first-line intervention for a stable patient with narrow-complex tachycardia, as shown on the ECG strip.
C. Administer lidocaine 1 mg/hour: Lidocaine is an antiarrhythmic used primarily to treat ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. It is not indicated for atrial or supraventricular tachycardias and would not address the underlying rhythm.
D. Ask the client if they drank a caffeinated beverage: While excessive caffeine intake can contribute to tachycardia, asking about caffeine use does not address the acute arrhythmia or guide immediate treatment. It may be part of history-taking but is not a priority intervention in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A 60-year-old woman with cardiac dysrhythmias post myocardial infarction. Her HR is 39 & irregular, BP 147/65: Although her heart rate is low, carvedilol is commonly used post-MI to reduce mortality, especially in patients with dysrhythmias. However, caution is warranted, and dosage adjustments or withholding may be necessary due to bradycardia.
B. A 55-year-old woman with HTN due to renal failure from chronic pyelonephritis. HR 92. BP 145/72: This client has stable vitals, and carvedilol can be safely used to help manage hypertension. Renal impairment requires monitoring, but it is not a contraindication if renal function is closely followed.
C. A 78-year-old man with a history of hyperlipidemia & cardiac dysfunction. He is in 3rd degree heart block. HR 42. BP 92/65: Carvedilol is contraindicated in clients with 2nd or 3rd degree heart block without a functioning pacemaker. It can worsen bradycardia and conduction delays, making its use unsafe in this client without rhythm control support.
D. A 49-year-old male, BMI 36, history of type 2 diabetes & HTN. HR 105, BP 158/92: This client is hypertensive and tachycardic, both of which carvedilol can help manage. Although diabetes requires careful monitoring for hypoglycemia, there is no contraindication in this scenario.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Teach the client how to change the pacemaker dressing: Client education is important but not a priority in the immediate post-procedure phase. Dressing changes should initially be performed using sterile technique by clinical staff to prevent infection at the insertion site.
B. Immobilize the affected arm using a sling: After pacemaker insertion, the affected arm (usually on the side of the implantation) should be immobilized or limited in movement to prevent lead dislodgment. Elevating the arm above the shoulder or excessive motion can compromise pacemaker lead placement during the early healing period.
C. Arrange for ancillary personnel to feed the client: Assistance with feeding is only necessary if the client has physical or cognitive limitations. This is not a routine or priority intervention following pacemaker insertion unless clinically indicated by other assessments.
D. Monitor urine output every two hours: Frequent monitoring of urine output is not directly related to pacemaker insertion unless there are other concerns such as fluid imbalance or renal dysfunction. It's not a standard intervention in the immediate care plan for this procedure.
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