Question

While evaluating a client's electrocardiogram (ECG) before surgery, the preoperative nurse identifies large, wide Q waves. What is the nurse's best interpretation of this finding?

a. An acute myocardial infarction is occurring.
b. The client had a myocardial infarction in the past.
c. The ventricles are enlarged and failing.
d. The ECG is a common variation of normal sinus rhythm.

Answer 1

The nurse's best interpretation of finding large, wide Q waves on a client's electrocardiogram (ECG) before surgery is that the client had a myocardial infarction in the past.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best interpretation of finding large, wide Q waves on a client's electrocardiogram (ECG) before surgery is b. The client had a myocardial infarction in the past.

Large, wide Q waves on an ECG can indicate previous damage to the heart muscle, specifically a previous myocardial infarction (heart attack). Q waves are abnormal if they are wider or deeper than normal and persist through multiple leads. It is important for the nurse to recognize this finding and communicate it to the healthcare team so appropriate interventions and precautions can be taken for the client's safety during surgery.