NCLEX Examination.
Practice Question # 886.
nclex examination.
Sinus bradycardia
Description
- Atrial and ventricular rhythms are regular.
- Atrial and ventricular rates are less than 60 beats per minute.
- PR interval and QRS width are within normal limits.
- Treatment may be necessary if the client is symptomatic (signs of decreased cardiac output).
- A low heart rate may be normal for some individuals, such as athletes.
Interventions
- Attempt to determine the cause of sinus bradycardia; withhold medication suspected of causing the bradycardia and notify the PHCP.
- Administer oxygen as prescribed for the symptomatic client.
- Administer atropine sulfate as prescribed to increase the heart rate to 60 beats per minute.
- Be prepared to apply a noninvasive (transcutaneous) pacemaker initially if the atropine sulfate does not increase the heart rate sufficiently.
- Avoid additional doses of atropine sulfate, because this will induce tachycardia.
- Monitor for hypotension and administer fluids intravenously as prescribed.
- Depending on the cause of the bradycardia, the client may need a permanent pacemaker.
