An elderly client is demonstrating a change in heart rate that ...

[Wadzanai]

An elderly client is demonstrating a change in heart rate that occurs with respirations. When planning care for the client, the nurse knows that treatment may include:
 
  1. Oxygen therapy
  2. Analgesics
  3. Antibiotics
  4. Pacemaker insertion

Question 2

An 84-year-old client is experiencing severe arthritis pain. The nurse realizes that which of the following pain management approaches would be the most beneficial for this client? (Select all that apply.)
 
  1. Avoid NSAIDs.
  2. Utilize morphine or morphine-like medication.
  3. Provide medication through the oral route.
  4. Utilize diazepam.
  5. Suggest Darvocet.
  6. Provide medication through the intramuscular route.

[AngeliqueG]

Answer to Question 1

4
A change in heart rate that occurs with respirations defines a sinus arrhythmia. If the client becomes symptomatic during periods of bradycardia, treatment will include atropine sulfate or pacemaker insertion. Treatment for sinus arrhythmia might include oxygen if the client is symptomatic. Treatment for this arrhythmia does not include analgesics or antibiotics.

Answer to Question 2

1, 2, 3
When providing pain medication to a geriatric client, pain management approaches include the utilization of morphine or morphine-like medication to control pain and provide medication using the oral route. NSAIDs should also be avoided because of the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Diazepam should be avoided because of a long half-life. Darvocet should be avoided because of toxic effects with renal insufficiency. Medication should not be provided using the intramuscular route because of muscle wasting and loss of fatty tissue in the elderly client.