The nurse notes that leads I, II, and III differ from one another on the cardiac rhythm strip because:
The view of the electrical current changes in relation to the lead placement.
Conduction of the heart differs with lead placement.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) equipment has malfunctioned.
The circadian rhythm has changed.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The view of the electrical current changes in relation to the lead placement – Each ECG lead offers a different angle or view of the heart's electrical activity, so the waveforms in leads I, II, and III naturally look different. This variation helps clinicians assess different parts of the heart.
B. Conduction of the heart differs with lead placement – The heart's electrical conduction system functions independently of lead placement; only the view of the conduction changes.
C. Electrocardiogram (ECG) equipment has malfunctioned – Lead differences are expected and normal; this is not a sign of malfunction.
D. The circadian rhythm has changed – Circadian rhythms affect general physiological patterns but do not cause variation in ECG lead appearance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hemoglobin is important for evaluating oxygen-carrying capacity but is not directly related to digoxin safety.
B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is useful in assessing renal function but is not the priority for digoxin administration.
C. Creatinine is also important for renal function assessment, especially since digoxin is renally excreted, but it is still secondary to potassium.
D. Potassium is the priority lab value to review before giving digoxin, because hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, which can lead to serious arrhythmias. Monitoring and correcting potassium levels is essential for client safety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a heart rate less than 60 beats/min, but in this case the rate is exactly 60, which is normal lower limit.
B. First degree heart block involves a prolonged PR interval (>0.20 seconds); here, the PR interval is normal (0.16 seconds).
C. Normal sinus rhythm has regular P waves and QRS complexes, a normal PR interval (0.12–0.20 seconds), and a heart rate between 60–100 beats/min.
D. Sick sinus syndrome is characterized by irregular rhythms and abnormal sinus node function, which is not indicated here.
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