Question

A client is having frequent premature ventricular contractions. The nurse should place priority on assessment of which item?

a) Sensation of palpitations
b) Causative factors, such as caffeine
c) Precipitating factors, such as infection
d) Blood pressure and oxygen saturation

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize assessing blood pressure and oxygen saturation in a client with frequent premature ventricular contractions to ensure hemodynamic stability and adequate oxygenation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client is experiencing frequent premature ventricular contractions, the nurse should place priority on assessing blood pressure and oxygen saturation. While sensations of palpitations, causative factors like caffeine, and precipitating factors such as infection are important to consider, the most immediate concern should be the client’s hemodynamic stability and oxygenation status. This assessment is crucial because it provides essential insights into the client's current cardiovascular status and potential acute complications of premature ventricular contractions, such as decreased cardiac output or hypoxia.