The nurse is caring for a client with a heart rate of 143 beats/min with atrial fibrillation. Which assessment data will the nurse anticipate? Select all that apply:
Cool, clammy skin
Respiratory rate 20
Flushing of the skin
Hypotension
Chest discomfort
Correct Answer : A,D,E
Choice A Reason:
Cool, clammy skin is a common symptom in patients with atrial fibrillation, especially when the heart rate is very high. This symptom occurs due to decreased cardiac output, which leads to poor perfusion of the skin. When the heart is beating too fast, it doesn’t have enough time to fill properly, resulting in less blood being pumped out to the body. This can cause the skin to feel cool and clammy as the body tries to compensate for the reduced blood flow.
Choice B Reason:
Respiratory rate of 20 is within the normal range for adults, which is typically 12-20 breaths per minute. While it is important to monitor respiratory rate in patients with atrial fibrillation, a rate of 20 does not indicate any immediate distress or abnormality. Therefore, this choice is not particularly relevant to the assessment of a patient with a heart rate of 143 beats/min due to atrial fibrillation.
Choice C Reason:
Flushing of the skin is not a typical symptom associated with atrial fibrillation. Flushing can occur due to various reasons such as fever, anxiety, or certain medications, but it is not directly linked to the high heart rate or the irregular rhythm seen in atrial fibrillation. Therefore, this choice is not applicable in this context.
Choice D Reason:
Hypotension (low blood pressure) is a significant concern in patients with atrial fibrillation, especially when the heart rate is very high. The rapid heart rate can lead to decreased cardiac output, as the heart does not have enough time to fill properly between beats. This can result in lower blood pressure, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and fatigue. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial in managing patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent complications.
Choice E Reason:
Chest discomfort is a common symptom in patients with atrial fibrillation, particularly when the heart rate is very high. The irregular and rapid heart rate can cause the heart to work harder, leading to increased oxygen demand and potentially reduced oxygen supply to the heart muscle. This imbalance can result in chest pain or discomfort, which is a warning sign that the heart is under stress. It is important to assess and address chest discomfort promptly to prevent further cardiac complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Occasional palpitations are a common symptom of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) with a non-sustained ventricular response. Palpitations are sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat, which occur due to the irregular and fast heart rate characteristic of SVT. These palpitations can be intermittent and may vary in intensity, often causing discomfort and anxiety in patients.
Choice B Reason:
Weakness can be associated with SVT, but it is not as specific or common as palpitations. Weakness may occur due to the reduced cardiac output and decreased perfusion to the muscles during episodes of rapid heart rate. However, it is not the primary symptom that nurses would anticipate in patients with SVT.
Choice C Reason:
Shortness of breath is another symptom that can occur with SVT, especially during prolonged episodes. The rapid heart rate can lead to decreased efficiency in blood circulation, causing the patient to feel breathless. While shortness of breath is a significant symptom, palpitations are more directly associated with the diagnosis of SVT.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Provide continued sedation.
Providing continued sedation is not typically necessary after a cardioversion. The sedation used during the procedure is usually short-acting, and the client should begin to wake up shortly after the procedure is completed. Continuous sedation is not required unless there are specific medical reasons, which should be determined by the healthcare provider.
Choice B Reason:
Remove crash cart from the room.
The crash cart should remain in the room until the client is fully stable. Removing it immediately after the procedure is not advisable because the client may still be at risk for complications such as arrhythmias or other cardiac events. Keeping the crash cart nearby ensures that emergency equipment is readily available if needed.
Choice C Reason:
Assess the chest for burns.
Assessing the chest for burns is an important nursing action following a cardioversion. The electrical shock delivered during the procedure can cause burns on the skin where the electrodes were placed. It is essential to check for any signs of burns or skin irritation and provide appropriate care if needed.
Choice D Reason:
Ensure electrodes are in place for continued monitoring.
Ensuring that the electrodes are in place for continued monitoring is crucial. Continuous cardiac monitoring is necessary to observe the client’s heart rhythm and detect any potential complications or recurrence of arrhythmias. Proper placement and function of the electrodes are essential for accurate monitoring.
Choice E Reason:
Document results of the procedure.
Documenting the results of the procedure is a critical nursing action. Accurate documentation includes noting the client’s response to the cardioversion, any complications, and the current heart rhythm. This information is vital for ongoing care and communication with the healthcare team.
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