A nurse is assessing a client who has atrial fibrillation.
Which of the following pulse characteristics should the nurse expect?
Not palpable.
Slow.
Irregular.
Bounding.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A pulse that is not palpable indicates severe circulatory collapse or cardiac arrest, not a characteristic of atrial fibrillation. It can be an emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
A slow pulse, or bradycardia, is not a typical feature of atrial fibrillation. Bradycardia is often associated with conditions like hypothyroidism or beta-blocker therapy rather than atrial fibrillation.
Choice C rationale
Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregularly irregular pulse due to disorganized electrical activity in the atria, leading to inconsistent ventricular contractions. Pulse rate can vary widely.
Choice D rationale
A bounding pulse, which is strong and forceful, is typically associated with conditions like fever or hyperthyroidism rather than atrial fibrillation. Bounding pulses are not characteristic of atrial fibrillation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing the patient in a left lateral position may not address the root cause of rapid, erratic electrical impulses. It stabilizes the airway but doesn't resolve the arrhythmia.
Choice B rationale
Initiating CPR and preparing for defibrillation are crucial. Rapid, erratic impulses suggest ventricular fibrillation, needing immediate CPR and defibrillation for survival.
Choice C rationale
Administering Furosemide, a diuretic, targets fluid overload but doesn't treat rapid, erratic electrical impulses like ventricular fibrillation, requiring immediate resuscitation.
Choice D rationale
A thorough assessment delays urgent intervention for life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation. Immediate CPR and defibrillation are essential for patient survival.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Antiembolic stockings compress superficial veins, which may further limit blood flow to the already compromised peripheral arteries, exacerbating symptoms of peripheral arterial disease rather than alleviating them.
Choice B rationale
Elevating the legs above heart level reduces arterial perfusion to the extremities. In peripheral arterial disease, maintaining a position that allows gravity to assist arterial flow is beneficial, not restricting it.
Choice C rationale
Applying heat can dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow; however, it can also increase the risk of burns due to decreased sensation and poor skin integrity commonly seen in peripheral arterial disease patients.
Choice D rationale
A warm environment helps to prevent vasoconstriction. Cold temperatures can cause the arteries to constrict, reducing blood flow to the extremities. A consistent warm environment supports improved blood circulation.
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