Author Question: A wandering atrial pacemaker rhythm with a ventricular rate of 60 to 100/min may also be referred to ... (Read 89 times)

kshipps · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A wandering atrial pacemaker rhythm with a ventricular rate of 60 to 100/min may also be referred to as _____.

a. atrial flutter
b. atrial fibrillation
c. multifocal atrial tachycardia
d. multiformed atrial rhythm

Question 2

How are frequent PACs usually managed?

a. Defibrillation
b. Synchronized cardioversion
c. Correcting the underlying cause
d. Administration of medications such as atropine or epinephrine

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

Answer to Question 1

D
Multiformed atrial rhythm is an updated term for the rhythm formerly known as wandering atrial pacemaker. When a wandering atrial pacemaker rhythm is associated with a ventricular rate of more than 100 beats/min, the dysrhythmia is called multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) or chaotic atrial tachycardia.

Answer to Question 2

C
PACs usually do not require treatment if they are infrequent. The patient may complain of a skipped beat or occasional palpitations if PACs are frequent or may be unaware of their occurrence. In susceptible individuals, frequent PACs may induce episodes of atrial fibrillation or paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). Frequent PACs are treated by correcting the underlying cause (e.g., correcting electrolyte imbalances, reducing stress, reducing or eliminating stimulants, treating heart failure). If the patient is symptomatic, frequent PACs may be treated with beta-blockers, such as atenolol or metoprolol.