The nurse is caring for a client in the telemetry unit and notices the rhythm below. The client is unresponsive and pulseless. After calling for assistance, what should be the nurse's next action?
Cardiovert in the synchronized mode.
Defibrillate immediately with a biphasic machine.
Take a full set of vital signs.
Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Cardiovert in the synchronized mode: Synchronized cardioversion is used for hemodynamically unstable but conscious patients with rhythms like atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia. It is not appropriate for a pulseless patient with ventricular fibrillation, as synchronization requires detectable R-waves.
B. Defibrillate immediately with a biphasic machine: The rhythm strip shows ventricular fibrillation (VF) a life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by chaotic, irregular waveform with no identifiable PQRST and no effective cardiac output. The patient is unresponsive and pulseless, making immediate defibrillation the priority action, as per Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) guidelines.
C. Take a full set of vital signs: The client is already unresponsive and pulseless, making a full set of vitals irrelevant at this moment. Immediate resuscitation efforts, including defibrillation and CPR, take priority.
D. Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation: While CPR is a critical part of the algorithm for pulseless rhythms, defibrillation is the first priority in ventricular fibrillation when a defibrillator is available and ready. CPR should be started immediately after the shock if no pulse returns.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["125"]
Explanation
Calculate the total volume to be infused in drops.
Total drops = Total volume (mL) × Drop factor (gtts/mL)
= 1000 mL × 60 gtts/mL
= 60000 gtts
Calculate the total infusion time in minutes.
Total infusion time (minutes) = Total hours × 60 minutes/hour
= 8 hours × 60 minutes/hour
= 480 minutes
Calculate the IV flow rate in drops per minute (gtts/min).
IV rate (gtts/min) = Total drops / Total infusion time (minutes)
= 60000 gtts / 480 minutes
= 125
=125 gtts/min
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ensure all tubing connections are tightened: Tight tubing connections are critical in preventing accidental disconnection, which can result in rapid blood loss and air embolism. Arterial lines are under high pressure, so securing all connections is a top priority to ensure patient safety and maintain line integrity.
B. Apply a pressure dressing to the insertion site: A transparent occlusive dressing not a pressure dressing is used for arterial lines to allow for site visualization and reduce the risk of infection. A pressure dressing could obscure signs of bleeding or compromise the catheter’s position.
C. Perform an Allen's test: Allen’s test is performed prior to radial arterial line insertion to assess collateral circulation via the ulnar artery for preventing ischemic complications if the radial artery is compromised. Performing the test afterward does not prevent complications and is no longer relevant once the catheter is placed.
D. Obtain a portable x-ray to confirm placement: X-rays are used to confirm the placement of central lines, not peripheral arterial lines like the radial line. Arterial line placement is confirmed by waveform analysis and blood return, not imaging.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today