The nurse understands that sinus tachycardia differs from normal sinus rhythm because:
the heart rate is greater than 100 bpm in sinus tachycardia
more p waves are present than QRS complexes
the QRS complexes measure greater than 0.10
the rhythm is often irregular in sinus tachycardia
The Correct Answer is A
A. the heart rate is greater than 100 bpm in sinus tachycardia: Normal Sinus Rhythm is characterized by a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). Sinus tachycardia is defined as a sinus rhythm with a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute. The rhythm remains regular, with each P wave followed by a QRS complex, but the rate is significantly faster than normal sinus rhythm.
B. more p waves are present than QRS complexes: In sinus tachycardia, the number of P waves and QRS complexes remains one-to-one, as each atrial impulse continues to be conducted to the ventricles. More P waves than QRS complexes typically suggest atrial flutter or other forms of AV dissociation.
C. the QRS complexes measure greater than 0.10: A widened QRS complex suggests a bundle branch block or ventricular rhythm, not sinus tachycardia. In sinus tachycardia, QRS complexes typically remain narrow, measuring less than 0.10 seconds unless an intraventricular conduction delay is present.
D. the rhythm is often irregular in sinus tachycardia: Sinus tachycardia is usually a regular rhythm with consistent R-R intervals. An irregular rhythm is more indicative of atrial fibrillation or sinus arrhythmia, not a defining characteristic of sinus tachycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Assist the client from the stretcher to a wheelchair: Immediately after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), the client is still recovering from anesthesia and may experience confusion, drowsiness, or muscle weakness. Transferring the client prematurely poses a fall risk and is not appropriate as the first action.
B. Orient the client and offer reassurance: While reorientation and reassurance are important aspects of post-ECT care, safety and physiological stability must be assessed first. This action should follow an initial assessment of vital signs and level of consciousness.
C. Encourage the client to drink some fluids: Offering fluids too soon after ECT is inappropriate because the client may have impaired swallowing reflexes from anesthesia or sedation. Ensuring the airway is clear and the client is fully alert must precede oral intake.
D. Assess vital signs and orient client to the PACU environment: The priority after any procedure involving anesthesia is to assess vital signs to ensure hemodynamic stability and monitor for complications. Once stable, the nurse can begin to orient the client, which is often needed after ECT due to temporary disorientation or memory lapses.
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