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 B
Explanation
A. Administer aspirin:
Aspirin is commonly given to patients suspected of having a heart attack because it helps to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of further clot formation. However, the administration of aspirin typically follows the confirmation of a cardiac event through diagnostic tests like the ECG. Aspirin is not the initial priority compared to obtaining diagnostic data.
B. 12 Lead Electrocardiography (ECG):
This is the most critical and time-sensitive action because it helps to quickly assess the patient's cardiac status. A 12 Lead ECG can identify important findings such as ST-segment elevation or depression, which are indicative of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other cardiac abnormalities. Early detection and intervention are crucial in improving outcomes for patients with suspected cardiac events.
C. Assess vital signs:
Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, provide valuable information about the patient's overall condition and can help determine the severity of the cardiac event. While assessing vital signs is important, performing the ECG takes precedence due to its immediate relevance in diagnosing and managing a potential cardiac emergency.
D. Administer morphine:
Morphine may be indicated for pain relief in patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, its administration should be based on the patient's pain level, hemodynamic stability, and other factors assessed after obtaining the ECG and vital signs. Morphine administration is not the primary action within the first 10 minutes of the patient's arrival; it follows the initial assessment and diagnostic procedures.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ribs: Ribs are not typically used for bone marrow aspiration procedures due to the difficulty of accessing bone marrow in this area.
B. Humerus: While bone marrow aspiration can technically be performed in the humerus (upper arm bone), it is not commonly used as a primary site because other sites like the iliac crest offer easier access and a larger volume of bone marrow.
C. Femur: The femur (thigh bone) is a potential site for bone marrow aspiration, especially in certain situations or specific patient populations. However, it is less commonly used compared to the iliac crest.
D. Iliac crest: The iliac crest is a primary site for bone marrow aspiration due to its accessibility, the relatively low risk of complications, and the ability to obtain an adequate sample of bone marrow for diagnostic purposes.
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