Question

1. Make a chart (that could be used for patient teaching) of each dysrhythmia by class and include those drugs commonly administered in their particular acute care setting. Include an “other” column for drugs that are not included in the Vaughn-Williams classification. Side effects of the medications should be included in the chart. (Refer to chapter 34).

Dysrhythmia	Drug Class	Drug of Choice for Treatment (Example)	Comments
Ex: Sinus Tachycardia	Class II: Beta Blockers	Metorprolol, Propranolol	monitor blood pressure; treat underlying conditions

2. Identify the following regarding the 6 second strip:

a. Are the P waves normal?

b. What is the rate?

3.

3a. Are the P waves normal?

b. What is the rate?

4.

4. a. How many P waves are there?

b. Are the P waves regular?

c. Are there more P waves than QRS complexes?

d. Interpret the rhythm.

5.

5a. Is the PR interval normal?

b. What is the normal range for PR interval?

6.

6. Interpret the rhythm/What is the rhythm?

7.

7. Interpret the rhythm.

Answer 1

1.

2. Sinus bradycardia

P waves are morphologically normal the rate is decreased

Less p waves than normal

RR interval increase

Rhythm is low

Av block- p waves normal in morphology

PR interval prolonged

It may progressively lengthen until QRS drops

Sinus tachycardia- morphology of P waves maintained

The rate increases

More number of P waves

They are regular

QRS complex is small

PR interval not normal (normal 0.12 to 0.20 sec)

Rhythm is not normal

Atrial fibrillation- no P waves seen

Rate is variable

Rhythm is irregular

QRS complex is narrow

Ventricular tachycardia- P waves are not normal

Broad complexes are seen

Heart rate more than 120 beats

The rhythm is not normal