The nurse is caring for a client with sinus bradycardia at a rate of 32 beats/min, blood pressure (BP) of 80/42 mm Hg, and reports feeling faint. Which is the appropriate action?
Give the scheduled dose of diltiazem (Cardizem).
Reposition the patient on the left side.
Have the patient perform the Valsalva maneuver.
Apply the transcutaneous pacemaker (TCP) pads
The Correct Answer is D
Sinus bradycardia with a heart rate of 32 beats/min and accompanying hypotension and symptoms of feeling faint indicates significant hemodynamic compromise. In such cases, the first-line intervention is to provide external cardiac pacing through transcutaneous pacemaker (TCP) pads. TCP can help increase the heart rate and improve cardiac output by delivering electrical impulses to the heart.
Administering the scheduled dose of diltiazem (Cardizem), a calcium channel blocker, is not appropriate in this situation. Diltiazem can further lower the heart rate and blood pressure, exacerbating the client's symptoms and potentially leading to adverse effects.
Repositioning the patient on the left side or having the patient perform the Valsalva maneuver are not effective interventions for treating sinus bradycardia with hemodynamic compromise. These actions may be used in specific situations, but in this case, the client requires immediate intervention to address the low heart rate and blood pressure.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Monitoring a client after a transesophageal echocardiogram involves observing the client for any immediate post-procedure complications or adverse reactions. This may include assessing vital signs, monitoring for signs of bleeding or infection, and reporting any concerning symptoms or changes in the client's condition to the nurse.
Checking the client's catheter site after a coronary angiogram requires assessing the site for bleeding, hematoma, or signs of infection. This task involves more complex assessment skills and would typically be performed by the nurse.
Teaching a patient about exercise electrocardiography involves providing education on the purpose of the test, the procedure itself, and any preparation or precautions the patient needs to take. This task requires specialized knowledge and is best performed by the nurse who can address the patient's specific questions and concerns.
Attaching ECG monitoring electrodes after a patient bathes requires technical knowledge and skill in properly placing the electrodes and ensuring accurate ECG readings. This task also falls within the scope of the nurse's responsibilities.
Delegation should be based on the UAP's skill set, training, and the complexity of the task. While the UAP can provide valuable support in monitoring a client after a transesophageal echocardiogram, the other tasks mentioned require the expertise and knowledge of a nurse.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
An ABI of 0.89 indicates a reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, which is suggestive of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In PAD, there is narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet. Medications like clopidogrel and simvastatin are commonly prescribed for individuals with PAD to manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications.

Here's an explanation of why the other options are not the most appropriate interventions:
Document the information as a normal finding: An ABI of 0.89 is not considered a normal finding. An ABI value below 0.9 is generally indicative of PAD or reduced blood flow to the lower extremities.
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass: An ABI value of 0.89 alone does not warrant immediate preparation for an arterial bypass. Arterial bypass surgery is typically considered for severe cases of PAD with significant symptoms that significantly impact the client's quality of life and other conservative treatments have not been successful.
Educate the client about the use of compression stockings: While compression stockings may be a part of the overall management of PAD, the ABI result alone does not indicate an immediate need for education about compression stockings. Other interventions, such as medication management, lifestyle modifications, and possibly revascularization procedures, may be more appropriate based on the severity of the PAD.
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