Question

A responder is caring for a patient with a history of congestive heart failure. The patient is experiencing shortness of breath, a blood pressure of 68/50 mm Hg, and a heart rate of 190/min. The patient's lead II ECG is displayed below.

a)What is the patient's blood pressure?
b)What is the patient's heart rate?
c) Identify the medical condition the patient is likely experiencing.
d) Suggest a potential intervention for the patient's symptoms.

Answer 1

The patient's blood pressure is 68/50 mm Hg. Their heart rate is 190/min. The patient is likely experiencing tachycardia.

Step-by-step explanation:

a) The patient's blood pressure is 68/50 mm Hg. The systolic pressure is 68 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is 50 mm Hg.

b) The patient's heart rate is 190/min.

c) Based on the patient's symptoms and the ECG, the patient is likely experiencing tachycardia, which is a medical condition characterized by a rapid heart rate.

d) A potential intervention for the patient's symptoms would be to administer medication to stabilize the patient's heart rate and blood pressure. This could include medications such as beta blockers or diuretics.