A client who is on the progressive care unit develops atrial flutter, rate 150 with dyspnea, shortness of breath and chest pain. Which action that is included in the hospital dysrhythmia protocol should the nurse do first?
Adenosine 6 mg IV push
Immediate cardioversion
Adenosine 12 mg IV push
Amiodarone 150 mg bolus followed by a 24 hour drip
The Correct Answer is B
A. Adenosine 6 mg IV push: Adenosine is used for certain supraventricular tachycardias, but immediate cardioversion is the first priority for a client with atrial flutter and chest pain.
B. Immediate cardioversion: This is the correct answer. Immediate cardioversion is indicated for atrial flutter with signs of hemodynamic instability, such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
C. Adenosine 12 mg IV push: Adenosine may be used after the first dose of 6 mg if the initial dose was ineffective, but cardioversion takes precedence for unstable patients.
D. Amiodarone 150 mg bolus followed by a 24-hour drip: Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic used for rate control or rhythm conversion but is not the first step for hemodynamically unstable clients with atrial flutter.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is more common in older adults, particularly those with underlying conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD can lead to structural changes in the heart, increasing the risk of AF. The elderly are particularly vulnerable due to age-related heart changes and comorbidities such as lung disease.
B. While carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that can be related to stroke prevention, it is not directly associated with a higher risk of AF compared to COPD.
C. Aspirin is used for its antiplatelet effects, not directly related to the risk of AF.
D. Post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery increases the risk for arrhythmias, but it is less directly linked to AF than conditions like COPD in an older adult.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Adenosine 6 mg IV push: Adenosine is used for certain supraventricular tachycardias, but immediate cardioversion is the first priority for a client with atrial flutter and chest pain.
B. Immediate cardioversion: This is the correct answer. Immediate cardioversion is indicated for atrial flutter with signs of hemodynamic instability, such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
C. Adenosine 12 mg IV push: Adenosine may be used after the first dose of 6 mg if the initial dose was ineffective, but cardioversion takes precedence for unstable patients.
D. Amiodarone 150 mg bolus followed by a 24-hour drip: Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic used for rate control or rhythm conversion but is not the first step for hemodynamically unstable clients with atrial flutter.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.