To properly identify a cardiac rhythm, the nurse will determine if the client's rhythm contains the following factors: (Select All that Apply.)
the P-P and R-R distances are equal and regular
the rhythm rate using a 3-second strip
the duration of the U waves
there is a QRS complex after each P wave
P waves are present, upright and rounded
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
A. The P-P and R-R distances are equal and regular: Equal and regular spacing between P-P and R-R intervals indicates that both atrial and ventricular rhythms are regular. This is a fundamental aspect of rhythm interpretation, helping to distinguish between regular and irregular rhythms such as atrial fibrillation or sinus arrhythmia.
B. The rhythm rate using a 3-second strip: Assessing the heart rate using a 3-second or 6-second ECG strip helps determine whether the rhythm is bradycardic, tachycardic, or within normal limits, which is crucial for accurate rhythm classification.
C. The duration of the U waves: U waves are typically small and follow the T wave. Although their presence can suggest conditions like hypokalemia, they are not routinely assessed in basic rhythm identification. Evaluating U wave duration is more relevant in electrolyte imbalance analysis than in identifying rhythm type.
D. There is a QRS complex after each P wave: A consistent QRS following every P wave indicates effective conduction from the atria to the ventricles. Each atrial depolarization (P wave) should be followed by a ventricular depolarization (QRS complex) if the signal is being conducted properly through the AV node. This finding supports a diagnosis of sinus rhythm and helps rule out AV blocks, where conduction may be delayed or blocked entirely.
E. P waves are present, upright and rounded: P waves that are upright and rounded in lead II suggest the electrical impulse is originating from the SA node. Their presence and morphology are essential criteria for identifying sinus rhythm and differentiating it from atrial arrhythmias like flutter or fibrillation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A 60-year-old woman with cardiac dysrhythmias post myocardial infarction. Her HR is 39 & irregular, BP 147/65: Although her heart rate is low, carvedilol is commonly used post-MI to reduce mortality, especially in patients with dysrhythmias. However, caution is warranted, and dosage adjustments or withholding may be necessary due to bradycardia.
B. A 55-year-old woman with HTN due to renal failure from chronic pyelonephritis. HR 92. BP 145/72: This client has stable vitals, and carvedilol can be safely used to help manage hypertension. Renal impairment requires monitoring, but it is not a contraindication if renal function is closely followed.
C. A 78-year-old man with a history of hyperlipidemia & cardiac dysfunction. He is in 3rd degree heart block. HR 42. BP 92/65: Carvedilol is contraindicated in clients with 2nd or 3rd degree heart block without a functioning pacemaker. It can worsen bradycardia and conduction delays, making its use unsafe in this client without rhythm control support.
D. A 49-year-old male, BMI 36, history of type 2 diabetes & HTN. HR 105, BP 158/92: This client is hypertensive and tachycardic, both of which carvedilol can help manage. Although diabetes requires careful monitoring for hypoglycemia, there is no contraindication in this scenario.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Amiodarone: Amiodarone is a Class III antiarrhythmic that primarily works by blocking potassium channels, thereby prolonging repolarization and the action potential duration. It is used to manage various atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
B. Digoxin: Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that increases myocardial contractility and slows conduction through the AV node. It does not affect potassium channels directly but rather works by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump.
C. Verapamil: Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker (Class IV antiarrhythmic) that slows conduction through the AV node and is used to treat supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and hypertension. It has no significant effect on potassium channels.
D. Carvedilol: Carvedilol is a non-selective beta-blocker with some alpha-blocking effects. It reduces heart rate and blood pressure but does not block potassium channels or have antiarrhythmic properties in that classification.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
