Final answer:
Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute and can be caused by various factors. In this scenario, the appropriate next action would be to administer medication to control the tachycardia. The specific medication will depend on the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute, and it is not normal in a resting patient. There are many potential causes of tachycardia, including stress, pregnancy, autonomic nervous system disorders, and stimulation from the limbic system. In some cases, tachycardia may involve only the atria. Symptoms can include dizziness, shortness of breath, rapid pulse, chest pain, and fainting.
In the scenario provided, the patient in the ICU has developed narrow-complex tachycardia with a heart rate of 220 beats per minute. The patient's blood pressure, PETCO2 levels, and pulse oximetry reading are within normal ranges, and there is no evidence of ischemia or infarction on the 12-lead ECG. Vagal maneuvers have been unsuccessful in regulating the heart rate.
Based on this information, the next action would be to administer a medication to try and control the tachycardia. The specific medication will depend on the underlying cause of the tachycardia. If the tachycardia is determined to be supraventricular in origin, options may include adenosine, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or antiarrhythmic drugs. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional in order to determine the best course of action for this particular patient.