Question

A patient has had several episodes of recurrent tachydysrhythmias over the last 5 months and medication therapy has not been effective. What procedure should the nurse prepare the patient for?

a) Insertion of an ICD
b) Maze procedure
c) Insertion of a permanent pacemaker
d) Catheter ablation therapy

Answer 1

For a patient with recurrent tachydysrhythmias not managed by medications, the nurse should prepare for the insertion of an ICD, a device designed to automatically regulate and correct heart rhythms.

Step-by-step explanation:

In response to a patient experiencing recurrent tachydysrhythmias and unresponsive to medication therapy, the appropriate procedure to prepare for would be a) Insertion of an ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator). This device not only acts as a pacemaker to regulate slow rhythms but also has defibrillation capabilities to correct fast rhythms. Unlike a standard pacemaker that is used primarily for slow heart rates, an ICD can provide a lifesaving shock if a dangerous tachyarrhythmia such as ventricular fibrillation occurs. It's important that the patient understands that the ICD is programmed to deal with irregular heart rhythms by providing necessary electrical impulses to maintain an effective heart rate and rhythm.

Pacemakers and ICDs are involved in cardiac muscle metabolism and work to ensure the heart contracts and pumps blood adequately. The ICD's sensors detect body movements and breathing changes to adjust the heart rate accordingly, especially during exercise. In the event of tachyarrhythmias, the ICD can deliver a shock to restore sinus rhythm, functioning similarly to an automated external defibrillator (AED).