Given the electrocardiogram tracing below for a client who is unresponsive and without a pulse, what should be the nurse’s priority action?

Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Establish intravenous (IV) access.

Carry out immediate defibrillation.

Check the client’s latest electrolyte levels.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The correct answer is choice c. Carry out immediate defibrillation.

Choice A rationale:

Initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential for a client who is unresponsive and without a pulse. However, in the presence of ventricular fibrillation, immediate defibrillation is the priority to restore a viable heart rhythm.

Choice B rationale:

Establishing intravenous (IV) access is important for administering medications during resuscitation. However, it is not the immediate priority when defibrillation is indicated.

Choice C rationale:

Immediate defibrillation is the priority action for a client with ventricular fibrillation who is unresponsive and without a pulse. Defibrillation can quickly restore a normal heart rhythm, which is critical in saving the client’s life.

Choice D rationale:

Checking the client’s latest electrolyte levels can provide valuable information for ongoing treatment but is not the immediate priority in an emergency situation where defibrillation is indicated. Immediate action to restore the heart rhythm is more critical.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale
The diaphragm is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The diaphragm is a muscle that helps with breathing and separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
Choice B rationale
The bifurcation into the common iliac arteries is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The common iliac arteries are located in the lower part of the aorta and supply blood to the pelvis and legs.
Choice C rationale
The aortic valve is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The aortic valve is located between the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta.
Choice D rationale
The ductus arteriosus is the correct answer. Coarctation of the aorta often occurs near the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the left pulmonary artery to the aorta.

A. Adenosine (Adenocard). B. Emergency cardioversion. C. Anticoagulant therapy. D. Permanent pacemakers.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Adenosine (Adenocard) is a medication that can be used to treat supraventricular tachycardia, a type of abnormal heart rhythm. However, it is not typically used for atrial fibrillation.
Choice B rationale
Emergency cardioversion, where an electric shock is used to restore the heart’s normal rhythm, can be used in some cases of atrial fibrillation. However, if the atrial fibrillation has been present for more than 48 hours, there is a risk of blood clots, and anticoagulation for several weeks before the procedure may be needed.
Choice C rationale
Anticoagulant therapy is often used in patients with atrial fibrillation to reduce the risk of stroke. Atrial fibrillation can lead to blood pooling in the atria, increasing the risk of clot formation. These clots can then travel to the brain, causing a stroke.
Choice D rationale
Permanent pacemakers are sometimes used in atrial fibrillation to help regulate the heart’s rhythm. However, they are typically used when other treatments have failed or are contraindicated.

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Given the electrocardiogram tracing below for a client who is unresponsive and without a pulse, what should be the nurse’s priority action?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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