Question

the nurse is caring for a client who has premature ventricular contractions. after assessing the client, the nurse will likely need to document which observed sign or symptom?

Answer 1

A nurse caring for a client with premature ventricular contractions would likely document signs of an irregular or skipped pulse due to the abnormal electrical patterns observed on the ECG. Increased frequency of QRS complexes may also indicate tachycardia, leading to an elevated heart rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

Premature Ventricular Contractions Signs and Symptoms

When caring for a client with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), the nurse must assess and document various signs and symptoms that may be present. PVCs are premature heartbeats that originate in the ventricles or lower chambers of the heart. After observing an abnormal electrical pattern prior to the QRS complexes and increased frequency of QRS complexes on an ECG, it is likely that the nurse would expect changes in the client's heart rate or pulse. Typically, PVCs can cause the pulse to feel irregular or skipped, since PVCs interrupt the normal heart rhythm.

In the case where the frequency between the QRS complexes has increased, this suggests that there is a tachycardia, or increased heart rate, associated with the PVCs. Therefore, the nurse may observe an elevated pulse rate in the client. It is essential for the nurse to monitor and document any related symptoms, such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort, as they can provide valuable information about the severity and impact of the PVCs on the client's health.