Review the EKG shown below, which displays rapid, erratic electrical impulses causing ineffective quivering instead of coordinated contraction.
What should be the nurse’s initial intervention?

Place the patient in a left lateral position and monitor vital signs.

Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately and prepare for defibrillation.

Administer Furosemide intravenously before considering other treatments.

Perform a thorough assessment to determine the cause of the arrhythmia before intervening.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale

Placing the patient in a left lateral position may not address the root cause of rapid, erratic electrical impulses. It stabilizes the airway but doesn't resolve the arrhythmia.

Choice B rationale

Initiating CPR and preparing for defibrillation are crucial. Rapid, erratic impulses suggest ventricular fibrillation, needing immediate CPR and defibrillation for survival.

Choice C rationale

Administering Furosemide, a diuretic, targets fluid overload but doesn't treat rapid, erratic electrical impulses like ventricular fibrillation, requiring immediate resuscitation.

Choice D rationale

A thorough assessment delays urgent intervention for life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation. Immediate CPR and defibrillation are essential for patient survival.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Slow repolarization of ventricular Purkinje fibers is not associated with the P wave. The P wave represents atrial depolarization, which is the electrical activation of the atria.

Choice B rationale

Early ventricular repolarization is represented by the T wave, not the P wave. The P wave specifically reflects atrial depolarization.

Choice C rationale

Atrial depolarization is the correct role of the P wave. It represents the electrical activity that leads to atrial contraction. Normal duration is 0.06 to 0.12 seconds.

Choice D rationale

Ventricular depolarization is represented by the QRS complex. The P wave precedes this and is related to atrial depolarization, not ventricular events.

A. Wear antiembolic stockings during the day. B. Rest with the legs above heart level. C. Apply a heating pad on a low setting to help relieve leg pain. D. Adjust the thermostat so that the environment is warm.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Antiembolic stockings compress superficial veins, which may further limit blood flow to the already compromised peripheral arteries, exacerbating symptoms of peripheral arterial disease rather than alleviating them.

Choice B rationale

Elevating the legs above heart level reduces arterial perfusion to the extremities. In peripheral arterial disease, maintaining a position that allows gravity to assist arterial flow is beneficial, not restricting it.

Choice C rationale

Applying heat can dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow; however, it can also increase the risk of burns due to decreased sensation and poor skin integrity commonly seen in peripheral arterial disease patients.

Choice D rationale

A warm environment helps to prevent vasoconstriction. Cold temperatures can cause the arteries to constrict, reducing blood flow to the extremities. A consistent warm environment supports improved blood circulation.

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Review the EKG shown below, which displays rapid, erratic electrical impulses causing ineffective quivering instead of coordinated contraction.What should be the nurse’s initial intervention?

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Review the EKG shown below, which displays rapid, erratic electrical impulses causing ineffective quivering instead of coordinated contraction.
What should be the nurse’s initial intervention?