RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Related

Review RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a clients ECG strip and notes an irregular heart rate of 98/min with no clear P waves. Which of the following cardiac dysrhythmias should the nurse document?

  • A. Sinus bradycardia
  • B. Atrial fibrillation
  • C. Ventricular tachycardia
  • D. First-degree heart block
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the heart rate is irregular and fast (98/min), and there are no clear P waves on the ECG strip, which aligns with the findings in the scenario. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by chaotic electrical activity in the atria, leading to an irregular heart rate. Sinus bradycardia (A) is characterized by a slow heart rate with normal P waves. Ventricular tachycardia (C) is a fast heart rhythm originating in the ventricles with distinct QRS complexes. First-degree heart block (D) is identified by a prolonged PR interval but should still have clear P waves. Other choices are not relevant. In this case, the absence of clear P waves and irregular heart rate point towards atrial fibrillation as the correct dysrhythmia to document.