ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who develops a ventricular fibrillation rhythm. The client is unresponsive, pulseless, and apneic. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

  • A. Defibrillation
  • B. Administer oxygen
  • C. Call for help
  • D. Start chest compressions
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Defibrillation. Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening arrhythmia that requires immediate defibrillation to restore the heart's normal rhythm. Defibrillation is the priority as it is the most effective intervention to treat ventricular fibrillation and increase the chance of survival. Administering oxygen (B) is important but not the priority over defibrillation. Calling for help (C) should be done after initiating defibrillation. Starting chest compressions (D) should only be done if defibrillation is not immediately available or unsuccessful.