A nurse is caring for a client who is alert and oriented and is receiving continuous ECG monitoring.
The cardiac rhythm strip shows a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate.
The nurse should identify the cardiac rhythm as which of the following?

Atrial fibrillation.

Ventricular asystole.

Second-degree heart block.

Sinus tachycardia.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

The described cardiac rhythm with a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate is consistent with atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the atria quiver instead of contracting effectively, leading to an irregular and often rapid heart rate. This rhythm is characterized by the absence of distinct P waves on the ECG.

Choice B rationale:

Ventricular asystole is a flatline on the ECG, indicating the absence of electrical activity in the heart. It is a life-threatening arrhythmia and requires immediate intervention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols.

Choice C rationale:

Second-degree heart block is characterized by intermittent failure of atrial electrical impulses to conduct to the ventricles. This results in occasional dropped beats and a varying heart rate. It is not consistent with the described ECG findings in the question.

Choice D rationale:

Sinus tachycardia is a regular, fast heart rate originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node. In sinus tachycardia, P waves are present, indicating that the electrical impulses originate in the SA node. The described ECG findings do not match the characteristics of sinus tachycardia.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Asking about past coping mechanisms can provide valuable information, but in this situation, where the client is expressing thoughts of hopelessness, it's crucial to assess the immediate risk of suicide. Therefore, this choice is not the best option in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Involving significant others in the client's care is important, but it doesn't address the client's current emotional state and suicidal ideation. This choice does not take priority in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

While exploring family history, including suicide, is relevant, it's not the first question to ask. Assessing the client's current thoughts and feelings should be the priority before delving into family history. Therefore, this choice is not the best option at this moment.

Choice D rationale:

(Correct Choice) This is the most appropriate question to ask first. Assessing the client's suicidal ideation is crucial for ensuring their safety. If the client expresses suicidal thoughts, the nurse can take immediate steps to keep the client safe, such as involving a mental health professional or initiating a suicide risk assessment.

A. Eat a meal. B. Take pancrelipase. C. Use an albuterol inhaler. D. Complete oral hygiene.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The correct answer is c. Use an albuterol inhaler.

Choice A reason: Eating a meal before postural drainage is not recommended because it can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting due to the positions required for the procedure.

Choice B reason: Taking pancrelipase is important for aiding digestion in cystic fibrosis patients, but it is not specifically related to the preparation for postural drainage.

Choice C reason: Bronchodilators like albuterol are used before airway clearance techniques to open the airways, making it easier to clear mucus during postural drainage.

Choice D reason: While maintaining oral hygiene is important for overall health, it is not a preparation step for postural drainage.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is alert and oriented and is receiving continuous ECG monitoring.The cardiac rhythm strip shows a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate.The nurse should identify the cardiac rhythm as which of the following?

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A nurse is caring for a client who is alert and oriented and is receiving continuous ECG monitoring.
The cardiac rhythm strip shows a wavy baseline, no distinguishable P waves, and an increased heart rate.
The nurse should identify the cardiac rhythm as which of the following?