The nurse obtains a monitor strip on a patient who has had a myocardial infarction and makes the following analysis: P wave not apparent, ventricular rate 196, R-R interval regular, P-R interval not measurable, QRS complex wide and distorted, QRS duration 0.18 second. The nurse interprets the patient's cardiac rhythm as;
ventricular tachycardia.
atrial fibrillation.
atrial tachycardia.
ventricular fibrillation.
The Correct Answer is A
The characteristics described in the monitor strip analysis suggest ventricular tachycardia. The absence of a visible P wave and the wide and distorted QRS complex indicates that the electrical impulse is originating in the ventricles rather than the atria. The ventricular rate of 196 and regular R-R intervals further support the diagnosis of ventricular tachycardia.
B. Atrial fibrillation in (option B) is incorrect because it is characterized by irregularly irregular R-R intervals and the absence of discernible P waves. The QRS complex is typically narrow
C. Atrial tachycardia in (option C) is incorrect because it would have a rapid atrial rate with regular R-R intervals, and P waves may or may not be discernible. The QRS complex is typically narrow.
D. Ventricular fibrillation in (option D) is incorrect because it would present as a chaotic, rapid, and irregular electrical activity with no discernible P waves, QRS complexes, or regular R-R intervals. It is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate defibrillation.
Therefore, based on the provided information, the nurse would interpret the patient's cardiac rhythm as ventricular tachycardia. However, it is important to note that an accurate interpretation should be made by a qualified healthcare professional, and the patient's clinical context should also be considered.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Assessing tissue perfusion is crucial in evaluating the adequacy of oxygen and nutrient delivery to the body's tissues. While multiple factors contribute to tissue perfusion, the options provided in choice B are key indicators:
Level of consciousness: Altered mental status or changes in the patient's level of consciousness can be a sign of impaired cerebral perfusion, which reflects overall tissue perfusion.
Urine output: Monitoring urine output provides information about renal perfusion and kidney function. Decreased urine output can be indicative of inadequate tissue perfusion.
Lactate level: Lactate is a by-product of anaerobic metabolism that accumulates when there is insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues. Elevated lactate levels indicate tissue hypoperfusion and cellular oxygen debt.
A. Pupil response, pulse pressure, and urine output in (option A) are incorrect because While pupil response and pulse pressure may provide some information about perfusion, they do not encompass a comprehensive assessment of tissue perfusion. Additionally, assessing urine output is important, but it alone may not provide a complete picture of tissue perfusion status.
C. Blood pressure, pulse, and respirations in (option C) are incorrect because Blood pressure, pulse, and respirations are important vital signs to monitor, but they do not solely indicate tissue perfusion. Hypotension, for example, can be a late sign of inadequate tissue perfusion.
D. Breath sounds, heart rate, and pupil response in (option D) are incorrect because: Although breath sounds and heart rate can be affected by changes in tissue perfusion, they are not specific or comprehensive indicators of tissue perfusion status. Pupil response alone does not provide a complete assessment of tissue perfusion.
Therefore, the most accurate assessment of tissue perfusion in a patient in shock involves evaluating the level of consciousness, urine output, and lactate levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The sepsis resuscitation bundle typically includes the administration of intravenous fluids to restore adequate perfusion and address hypovolemia. The initial fluid of choice is often the crystalloid solution, such as Lactated Ringers (LR), and the recommended initial fluid bolus is 30 ml/kg. This intervention aims to optimize intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion.
A. Cooling baths in (option A) is incorrect because they may be used in the management of hyperthermia or fever, but they are not specific interventions in the sepsis resuscitation bundle.
B. Blood transfusion in (option B) is incorrect it may be necessary in certain cases of sepsis, such as severe anemia or hypovolemia, but it is not a routine intervention in the sepsis resuscitation bundle based solely on the provided information.
D. NPO status (nothing by mouth) in (option D) is incorrect because it is not a specific intervention in the sepsis resuscitation bundle. It may be indicated in certain cases, such as when surgery is required or if there is a risk of aspiration, but it does not directly address the sepsis-related variables mentioned.
It is important to note that the specific management of sepsis may vary based on the patient's individual condition, clinical presentation, and healthcare provider's orders.
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