Question

When transcutaneously pacing a patient and capture is obtained, set the mA at ______ above the dose at which capture was obtained.

Answer 1

When pacing a patient transcutaneously and obtaining capture, the recommended practice is to set the milliampere level to 10% higher than the capture threshold to ensure safety and continuity.

Step-by-step explanation:

When transcutaneously pacing a patient and capture is obtained, it is advised to set the milliampere (mA) level to 10% above the threshold at which capture was obtained to ensure consistent pacing. This margin of safety is necessary because factors such as patient movement, changes in electrode position, or changes in patient condition might otherwise cause loss of capture. The initial capture threshold is determined by gradually increasing the pacing mA until consistent mechanical capture, evidenced by a palpable pulse or a consistent heart rate on the monitor, is achieved. Once that threshold is identified, the mA is increased by 10% to ensure reliable pacing.