In order to perform synchronized cardioversion, the nurse must verify that:
all of these answers.
the patient is not in ventricular fibrillation.
the monitor is in the "sync" mode.
the monitor recognizes and marks the patient's QRS complexes.
The Correct Answer is A
A. all of these answers: Synchronized cardioversion requires several safety checks to ensure effective and safe delivery of the shock. The patient must have a pulse (not in ventricular fibrillation), the defibrillator must be set to “sync” mode, and the device must correctly detect and mark QRS complexes to deliver the shock at the appropriate moment in the cardiac cycle.
B. the patient is not in ventricular fibrillation: Synchronized cardioversion is only indicated for unstable, pulsing arrhythmias such as SVT, atrial fibrillation, or unstable ventricular tachycardia. Ventricular fibrillation is treated with unsynchronized defibrillation because there is no organized QRS complex to synchronize with.
C. the monitor is in the "sync" mode: Activating the “sync” function ensures that the shock is delivered precisely during the R wave of the QRS complex. This minimizes the risk of delivering a shock during the T wave, which could trigger ventricular fibrillation and cause cardiac arrest.
D. the monitor recognizes and marks the patient's QRS complexes: Correct identification of QRS complexes is essential for synchronization. If the device fails to mark the complexes accurately, the shock may be delivered at the wrong time, increasing the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias and making the procedure unsafe.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Bundle branch block: A bundle branch block is a conduction delay in the ventricular pathways, which affects the QRS complex but does not itself cause tachyarrhythmias. Amiodarone is not indicated for isolated bundle branch block and would not correct this conduction abnormality.
B. Ventricular tachycardia: Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic used to treat life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, including sustained ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. It works by prolonging the action potential and refractory period, stabilizing the myocardium and reducing the likelihood of recurrent episodes.
C. Junctional rhythm: Junctional rhythms originate from the AV node, typically with a slow rate. These rhythms are generally not treated with amiodarone unless they are associated with other dangerous arrhythmias. Junctional rhythms are usually managed based on rate and hemodynamic stability.
D. Sinus bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a slow but regular heart rhythm originating from the SA node. Amiodarone can actually worsen bradycardia and is not indicated for this rhythm. Management typically involves observation or medications such as atropine if symptomatic.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rhythm: Sinus, regular
Rate: 100 b/min
P wave: Present, normal
PR interval: Prolonged, 0.28 seconds
QRS: Narrow, 0.08 seconds
Rhythm interpretation: First degree AV block
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