The client arrives to the emergency department with syncope. After placing the telemetry monitor on the client, the nurse sees this rhythm. How should the nurse interpret this rhythm?
Complete (third-degree) heart block
Pacemaker rhythm
Sinus bradycardia
First-degree heart block
The Correct Answer is B
A. Complete (third-degree) heart block: This rhythm is characterized by a lack of relationship between P waves and QRS complexes, indicating a complete dissociation between atrial and ventricular activity.
B. A pacemaker rhythm on an ECG is characterized by the presence of pacing spikes followed by P waves or QRS complexes, depending on whether the pacemaker is pacing the atrium or the ventricle. If the pacemaker is pacing the ventricle, the pacing spike will be followed by a QRS complex. The QRS complexes in a paced rhythm are often wider than normal.
C. Sinus bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is a slow but regular rhythm originating from the sinus node, with normal P waves and QRS complexes.
D. First-degree heart block: First-degree heart block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval (greater than 0.20 seconds) but with all P waves followed by QRS complexes, differing from third-degree heart block.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A client with left-sided heart failure on oxygen via nasal cannula: This client is at risk for respiratory distress due to pulmonary congestion. Immediate assessment is needed to ensure oxygenation and manage potential deterioration.
B. A client with syncope who is being discharged today: This client is stable if being discharged, so assessment can be delayed.
C. A client scheduled for a cardiac ultrasound this morning: This is a non-urgent diagnostic procedure and does not take priority.
D. A client with controlled atrial fibrillation with a heart rate of 82: Controlled atrial fibrillation indicates stability, so this client can be assessed later.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Apply warm compresses to site of the client's pacemaker insertion: Heat application is contraindicated as it may increase swelling or risk infection.
B. Teach the client to avoid being near any type of household microwave oven: Modern pacemakers are shielded, so microwaves do not interfere with their function.
C. Ambulate the client as soon as possible to evaluate pacemaker function: While early ambulation is encouraged, pacemaker function is not evaluated through ambulation.
D. Instruct client to limit movement of the arm on side where pacemaker was inserted: Limiting arm movement prevents dislodging the pacemaker leads during the healing phase.
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