A nurse is caring for an alert client who reports heart palpitations, nausea, and dizziness. An electrocardiogram (EKG) confirms the client is experiencing vector tachycardia (VT). The nurse should anticipate which action?
Start CPR
Prepare for radiofrequency catheter ablation
Prepare for defibrillation
Prepare for cardioversion
The Correct Answer is D
A. Start CPR: CPR is indicated if the client is unresponsive and pulseless, which is not the case here as the client is alert.
B. Prepare for radiofrequency catheter ablation: This is a long-term treatment for recurrent VT but not appropriate for acute management.
C. Prepare for defibrillation: Defibrillation is used for pulseless VT or ventricular fibrillation, not for a stable VT with a pulse.
D. Prepare for cardioversion: Synchronized cardioversion is the appropriate intervention for a stable VT with a pulse to restore normal rhythm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Pacemaker: Pacemakers are used for bradyarrhythmias or heart block, not typically for atrial flutter.
B. Cardiac catheterization: This is used for diagnostic or interventional procedures, not for rhythm correction.
C. Pulmonary artery pressure monitoring: This is a monitoring tool for critically ill clients with heart failure or pulmonary hypertension, not a treatment for atrial flutter.
D. Cardioversion: Cardioversion is often used for atrial flutter when drug therapy fails. It delivers synchronized electrical energy to restore normal sinus rhythm.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula: The client's symptoms of dyspnea, chest pain, syncope, and hypotension suggest a possible acute cardiovascular event, such as a myocardial infarction (MI) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Administering oxygen should be the priority to improve oxygenation and prevent hypoxia, which could exacerbate the client's symptoms and further compromise cardiac function.
B. Administer prescribed pain medications. Pain relief may be necessary, but stabilizing oxygen levels is the priority.
C. Administer NS IV fluid. Fluid administration may be helpful, but oxygenation is more critical in this situation to address the potential underlying respiratory or cardiac issue.
D. Ask the provider for a dopamine prescription. While dopamine may be used in cases of shock, the immediate action should be to ensure the client is adequately oxygenated.
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