The nurse is caring for a client who suddenly develops bradycardia. The client is breathing but with a decreased level of consciousness and decreased blood pressure. Which of the following treatments would be done by the nurse first?
Application of a transcutaneous pacemaker
Administer atropine IV
Begin CPR
Initiate cardioversion
The Correct Answer is B
A. Transcutaneous pacing may be considered if the bradycardia does not respond to initial medical management, but it is not the first intervention.
B. Administering atropine IV is the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia. Atropine works by increasing heart rate through its anticholinergic effects, helping to improve cardiac output and consciousness.
C. CPR is only indicated if the client is pulseless or not breathing. Since this client is still breathing, CPR is not appropriate at this stage.
D. Cardioversion is used for certain tachyarrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response), not for bradycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Epinephrine – Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylactic shock. It rapidly reverses airway constriction, hypotension, and swelling by stimulating alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to bronchodilation, vasoconstriction, and increased cardiac output.
B. Dobutamine – Dobutamine is a positive inotrope used to treat cardiogenic shock and may support cardiac output, but it does not address the airway or allergic component of anaphylaxis.
C. Methylprednisolone – This corticosteroid may be given to reduce inflammation and prevent delayed reactions, but it has a slower onset of action and is not the priority in emergency management.
D. Furosemide – This diuretic is used in fluid overload or pulmonary edema, not in the management of anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. An atrial rhythm regular and ventricular rhythm irregular would suggest an arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation or flutter with variable conduction—not sinus tachycardia.
B. In sinus tachycardia, the rhythm is regular, the P:QRS ratio is 1:1, meaning each P wave is followed by a QRS complex, and the origin is from the sinus node.
C. A 2:1 P:QRS ratio is characteristic of certain types of heart block or atrial flutter—not sinus tachycardia.
D. Irregular ventricular and atrial rhythms are seen in atrial fibrillation or other irregular arrhythmias, not sinus tachycardia.
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