Mr Jones came to the ER complaining of chest palpitations. He states his heart feels like it is "racing". The nurse found the following rhythm on the monitor. What is the next step would the nurse expect to take first?
Defibrillate
Ask him to blow into a syringe
Draw troponins
Give amiodarone
The Correct Answer is B
B This maneuver, called the Valsalva maneuver, can sometimes help to restore normal heart rhythm in cases of SVT. It involves blowing forcefully into a syringe or performing a similar action that increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can stimulate the vagus nerve and help to slow down the heart rate.
A Defibrillation is a treatment used for life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. It involves delivering a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to the heart with a device called a defibrillator.
C Drawing troponin levels may be appropriate if there is suspicion of myocardial infarction as the cause of chest palpitations or if there are other symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome. However, in the context of SVT presenting with chest palpitations and a racing heart, the priority is to address the arrhythmia first
D Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication used to treat various types of cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias. While it can be effective in certain cases of SVT, it is not typically the first-line treatment or the immediate next step in managing SVT in the emergency department.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A The first intervention should be to ensure adequate oxygenation, as hypoxia can exacerbate shock. Therefore, providing oxygen at 100% via a non-rebreather mask is the most critical initial step. This intervention helps to maximize the amount of oxygen delivered to the patient's lungs and subsequently to the rest of the body, supporting vital organ function while further assessments and interventions are prepared.
B Continuous ECG monitoring allows for the assessment of the patient's heart rhythm, rate, and any signs of dysrhythmias or cardiac ischemia. This intervention is important for detecting any life- threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, which may require immediate intervention. While ECG monitoring is important, it may not be the highest priority intervention.
C Drawing blood for type and crossmatch is important for preparing for potential blood transfusions if significant blood loss is suspected. However, this intervention may take some time to process, and immediate stabilization of the patient's condition is paramount.
D Large-bore IV catheters allow for rapid infusion of fluids to restore intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion. This intervention is critical for stabilizing the patient's hemodynamic status and takes precedence in the management of shock. However, oxygenation should take priority.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. A client who is postoperative with shallow respirations at a rate of 9/min is likely not adequately eliminating carbon dioxide from their body due to hypoventilation. This retention of carbon dioxide can lead to an increase in the partial pressure of CO2 in the blood, causing an acidotic state.
A. Metabolic acidosis results from an accumulation of acids in the body or a loss of bicarbonate. Hypoventilation leading to respiratory acidosis does not directly cause metabolic acidosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive elimination of CO2 from the body, leading to decreased arterial carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and an increase in pH. Shallow respirations and decreased respiratory rate are more consistent with hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis rather than hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis.
D. Metabolic alkalosis results from excessive loss of acids or increased bicarbonate levels in the body. Hypoventilation leading to respiratory acidosis does not directly cause metabolic alkalosis.
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