Final answer:
Bradycardia is a condition characterized by a slow heart rate and can be caused by various factors. The priority intervention for a patient with 3rd-degree heart block administered with atropine is to bring a transcutaneous pacemaker to the bedside. It is important to consider the risk for falls due to dizziness, weakness, and fatigue experienced by the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bradycardia is a condition characterized by a slow heart rate. It can be caused by various factors, including abnormalities in the SA or AV node, ischemia to the heart muscle, or diseases of the heart vessels or valves. Treatment for severe cases may involve the use of a pacemaker. External factors such as electrolyte imbalances, neurological disorders, autoimmune pathologies, and overprescription of beta blocker drugs can also contribute to bradycardia. When administering atropine to treat 3rd-degree heart block, the priority intervention is to bring a transcutaneous pacemaker to the patient's bedside. However, it is important to address the risk for falls due to dizziness, weakness, and fatigue, which are common symptoms experienced by the patient.
A third-degree heart block is a severe condition where there is no correlation between atrial activity (the P wave) and ventricular activity (the QRS complex). In this case, the heart rate may be significantly decreased. Medical interventions, such as the administration of atropine, can help stimulate the heart and increase the heart rate. However, as atropine can cause side effects like dizziness, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of the patient and address the risk for falls caused by the dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.