The nurse is assessing the cardiac rhythm of a client who is admitted with coronary artery disease. The nurse notes that the PR interval is 0.24 and the QRS interval is 0.10. Which interpretation would be appropriate for the nurse to make
First degree heart block
Second degree heart block
Bundle branch block
Sinus arrhythmia
The Correct Answer is A
A. First-degree heart block: A prolonged PR interval greater than 0.20 seconds, as seen in this case, indicates first-degree heart block, which is a delay in conduction at the AV node.
B. Second-degree heart block. Second-degree heart block is characterized by some PR intervals being prolonged with occasional dropped beats (non-conducted P waves).
C. Bundle branch block. Bundle branch block causes a wide QRS complex (greater than 0.12 seconds), which is not seen here.
D. Sinus arrhythmia. Sinus arrhythmia involves changes in heart rate due to respiratory cycles, not prolonged PR intervals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. It occurs immediately when buttons depressed: The device synchronizes with the R wave and does not deliver the shock immediately.
B. It requires a higher amount of joules than is used in defibrillation: Cardioversion typically requires fewer joules compared to defibrillation.
C. It discharges during ventricular depolarization of the heart: Synchronized cardioversion times the electrical shock with the R wave (ventricular depolarization) to avoid delivering energy during the T wave, which could induce ventricular fibrillation.
D. It is programmed to occur in non-sync mode: Cardioversion must be synchronized; non-sync mode is used in defibrillation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Document the finding and continue to monitor the client: A PR interval of 0.24 seconds indicates first-degree AV block, which is often asymptomatic and benign if vital signs are stable. No immediate intervention is required other than continued monitoring.
B. Prepare the client for temporary pacemaker insertion: Pacemakers are not indicated for asymptomatic first-degree AV block.
C. Notify the health care provider immediately and then administer epinephrine IV: This is unnecessary as the client is stable and shows no signs of hemodynamic compromise.
D. Administer atropine per agency bradycardia protocol and then notify the health care provider: Atropine is not required for a stable heart rate of 72 bpm.
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