A nurse is interpreting a client’s ECG strip.
Which of the following components of the ECG should the nurse examine to determine the time it takes for ventricular depolarization and repolarization?

Choice A rationale

A blood pressure of 124/85 mm Hg is above the normal range (less than 120/80 mm Hg), making it not within the expected reference range.

Choice B rationale

Blood pressure of 124/85 mm Hg falls within the elevated (prehypertension) category, defined as systolic 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.

Choice C rationale

Stage 1 hypertension is defined by systolic 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic 80-89 mm Hg, which does not apply to the client's blood pressure.

Choice D rationale

Stage 2 hypertension involves systolic ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic ≥90 mm Hg, which is not relevant to the client’s blood pressure of 124/85 mm Hg.

Choice A rationale

Frothy sputum indicates pulmonary edema, a common complication of left-sided heart failure, resulting from fluid accumulation in the lungs due to poor ventricular function.

Choice B rationale

Nocturnal polyuria is associated with right-sided heart failure due to fluid redistribution when lying down, which increases kidney perfusion and urine output at night.

Choice C rationale

Dependent edema is more characteristic of right-sided heart failure, where fluid accumulates in lower extremities due to poor venous return and right ventricular failure.

Choice D rationale

Jugular distention is a sign of right-sided heart failure, caused by increased central venous pressure from the failing right ventricle's inability to pump blood effectively. .