Final answer:
The nurse is likely identifying a tachycardia or premature contractions in the cardiac rhythm strip, which would typically result in an increased heart rate (pulse) above the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute in adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse observes an abnormal electrical pattern prior to the QRS complexes and an increased frequency between QRS complexes on a rhythm strip from a cardiac monitor, it implies the presence of some type of arrhythmia. In this scenario, the nurse could be recognizing premature contractions or potentially a form of tachycardia, depending on the characteristics of the observed rhythm. If the frequency between the QRS complexes has increased significantly, this could indicate a higher heart rate, which is a hallmark of tachycardia. Thus, one would expect the heart rate (pulse) to increase above the normal range, which is above 100 beats per minute in adults. The clinical implications of such findings can include symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or even more serious complications if not addressed appropriately. Arrhythmias can be life-threatening and may require interventions such as medication or the use of a cardiac defibrillator.