The nurse is reviewing an electrocardiogram rhythm strip. The P waves and QRS complexes are regular. The PR interval is 0.16 seconds, and the QRS complexes measure 0.06 seconds. The overall heart rate is 64 beats/minute. Which would be a correct interpretation based on these characteristics?
Sinus bradycardia
Sinus arrhythmia
Sinus tachycardia
Normal sinus rhythm
The Correct Answer is D
A. Sinus bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a regular rhythm with a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute. In this case, the heart rate is 64 beats per minute, which falls within the normal range, not consistent with sinus bradycardia.
B. Sinus arrhythmia: Sinus arrhythmia typically presents as a variation in the R-R interval with respiration, often seen as an irregularity in the heart rate. The provided characteristics describe a regular rhythm, so sinus arrhythmia is not the correct interpretation.
C. Sinus tachycardia: Sinus tachycardia is characterized by a regular rhythm with a heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute. The heart rate in this case is 64 beats per minute, which is not indicative of sinus tachycardia.
D. Normal sinus rhythm: Normal sinus rhythm refers to a regular rhythm with a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute, P waves preceding each QRS complex, a normal PR interval (0.12 to 0.20 seconds), and normal QRS complex duration (less than 0.12 seconds). The provided characteristics, including regular P waves, regular QRS complexes, a PR interval of 0.16 seconds, and a heart rate of 64 beats per minute, align with a normal sinus rhythm interpretation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","F"]
Explanation
A. History of smoking:
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that damage blood vessels, promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, and increase the risk of blood clots, all of which can lead to CAD, heart attacks, and strokes.
B. Body mass index (BMI) of 20:
While obesity and elevated BMI are risk factors for CAD, a BMI of 20 falls within the healthy weight range for most adults. However, it's important to note that BMI alone may not fully capture an individual's overall cardiovascular risk, as factors like body composition, waist circumference, diet, and physical activity level also contribute to heart health.
C. History of diabetes:
Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, is a significant risk factor for CAD. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage blood vessels (atherosclerosis), increase inflammation, and contribute to other metabolic abnormalities that raise the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and peripheral vascular disease.
D. Family history of coronary heart disease:
Having a family history of coronary heart disease (CHD) or premature heart attacks (before age 55 in men or before age 65 in women) increases the risk of developing CAD. Genetic factors play a role in the development of heart disease, and individuals with close relatives affected by CHD have a higher likelihood of developing similar conditions.
E. Female gender:
While gender can influence cardiovascular risk factors and presentation, being female alone is not considered a specific risk factor for CAD. However, women may have different risk profiles or risk factors compared to men, such as hormonal influences (e.g., menopause) and unique symptom presentation for heart disease.
F. Age greater than 45 years for men:
Advancing age is a significant risk factor for CAD, especially for men. Men aged 45 years and older are at increased risk compared to younger age groups due to factors such as the cumulative effects of risk factors over time, hormonal changes, and age-related changes in blood vessels and heart function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): CPR is not indicated in this scenario unless the client experiences a cardiac arrest. Chest pain during an exercise stress test does not automatically warrant CPR.
B. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin to allow the client to finish the test: Nitroglycerin is typically used to relieve angina (chest pain) associated with myocardial ischemia. However, in this case, the exercise stress test should be stopped to evaluate the cause of the chest pain before administering nitroglycerin.
C. Stop the test and monitor the client closely: This is the correct action. Chest pain during an exercise stress test may indicate myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart muscle), and stopping the test allows for further assessment and evaluation of the client's condition.
D. Administer analgesia and slow the test: Administering analgesia (pain medication) is not appropriate without first determining the cause of the chest pain. Slowing the test may not address the underlying issue and could potentially worsen the client's condition if they are experiencing cardiac-related chest pain.
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