The nurse is caring for a client who suddenly develops bradycardia. The client is breathing but with a decreased level of consciousness and decreased blood pressure. Which of the following treatments would be done by the nurse first?
Application of a transcutaneous pacemaker
Administer atropine IV
Begin CPR
Initiate cardioversion
The Correct Answer is B
A. Transcutaneous pacing may be considered if the bradycardia does not respond to initial medical management, but it is not the first intervention.
B. Administering atropine IV is the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia. Atropine works by increasing heart rate through its anticholinergic effects, helping to improve cardiac output and consciousness.
C. CPR is only indicated if the client is pulseless or not breathing. Since this client is still breathing, CPR is not appropriate at this stage.
D. Cardioversion is used for certain tachyarrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response), not for bradycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by a ventricular rate >100 bpm, regular rhythm, no visible P waves, and wide QRS complexes (>0.12 seconds). The findings described—ventricular rate of 162, regular R-R intervals, no visible P waves, and a QRS duration of 0.18 seconds—are consistent with ventricular tachycardia.
B. Ventricular fibrillation shows a chaotic, irregular rhythm with no identifiable QRS complexes, which is not the case here.
C. Sinus tachycardia would have visible P waves and a normal QRS duration.
D. Atrial flutter typically has "sawtooth" flutter waves and a more organized atrial rhythm with a distinct P wave pattern, which is absent in this scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Jugular distention is typically associated with right-sided heart failure.
B. Dependent edema is more common in right-sided heart failure due to systemic venous congestion.
C. Hepatomegaly occurs with right-sided heart failure from liver congestion.
D. Frothy sputum is a classic finding in left-sided heart failure due to pulmonary congestion and edema.
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