Author Question: The nurse sees on the cardiorespiratory monitor that the patient's cardiac rhythm has changed from ... (Read 86 times)

Melani1276 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse sees on the cardiorespiratory monitor that the patient's cardiac rhythm has changed from normal sinus rhythm to ventricular fibrillation. The nurse knows that the most effective means of converting this rhythm is:

a. CPR.
b. defibrillation.
c. oxygen.
d. precordial thump.

Question 2

A patient with a tracheostomy tube is accidentally extubated. What should the nurse do immediately?

a. Call the health care provider.
b. Mechanically ventilate the patient.
c. Insert a new tracheostomy tube.
d. Hold the stoma open with the fingertips.

katieost · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
CPR should be performed until the defibrillator patches are applied, but it is not the most effective means of converting the electrical rhythm; rather it supports life until defibrillation can be performed. Oxygen should be administered during CPR, but it is not the means of converting the rhythm. Precordial thumps are controversial at best and would not be the most effective means of converting the rhythm.

Answer to Question 2

C
Replace the old tracheostomy tube with a new tube. Some experienced nurses or respiratory therapists may be able to quickly reinsert the tracheostomy tube. A spare tracheostomy tube of the same size and kind should be kept at the bedside in the event of emergency replacement. Notify the health care provider after reestablishing the airway. Be prepared to manually ventilate the patient with an Ambu bag if respiratory distress develops until the tracheostomy is replaced. An endotracheal tube of the same size can be inserted in the stoma in an emergency.