Question

A client’s rhythm strip shows a regular rhythm with atrial and ventricular rates of 70 bpm, a PR interval of 0.24 seconds and a QRS duration of 0.08 seconds. The nurse interprets this rhythm as:

a.	Sinus arrhythmia
b.	Normal sinus rhythm (NSR)
c.	Junctional escape rhythm
d.	NSR with a 1-degree atrioventricular (AV) block

Answer 1

The atrial and ventricular rate of 70 BPM is normal(60_100bpm). As the heart beats are normal it is not sinus arrhythmia because in sinus arrhythmia the heart beats of the patient are irregular

The PR interval is increased as the normal range is between 0.12_0.20 .It indicates a problem with the atria.

So it cannot be a normal sinus rhythm

The QRS duration is normal

In junctional rhythm P ways are not present.If present it is inverted.

As the rhythm is regular and normal it is NSR .At the same time the PR interval is prolonged which indicates the patient is having atrioventricular block which is first degree type.

Ans:d.NSR with a 1_degree atrioventricular (AV) block.