Question

A nurse is checking the ECG rhythm strip for a client who has a temporary pacemaker. The nurse notes a pacemaker artifact followed by a QRS complex. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a) Notify the provider immediately.
b) Increase the pacemaker rate.
c) Document the findings as normal.
d) Administer a beta-blocker.

Answer 1

When a nurse observes a pacemaker artifact followed by a QRS complex on an ECG rhythm strip for a client with a temporary pacemaker, it is normal and indicates that the pacemaker is functioning properly. The nurse should document these findings as normal.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse notes a pacemaker artifact followed by a QRS complex on an ECG rhythm strip for a client with a temporary pacemaker, it indicates that the pacemaker is working correctly. The QRS complex represents ventricular contraction, which is triggered by the pacemaker. Therefore, the nurse should document these findings as normal.