Question

The nurse notes premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) while suctioning a patient's endotracheal tube. Which next action by the nurse is indicated?

a. Plan to suction the patient more frequently.
b. Decrease the suction pressure to 80 mm Hg.
c. Give antidysrhythmic medications per protocol.
d. Stop and ventilate the patient with 100% oxygen.

Answer 1

To address premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) while suctioning a patient's endotracheal tube, the nurse should stop and ventilate the patient with 100% oxygen.

Step-by-step explanation:

To address premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) while suctioning a patient's endotracheal tube, the nurse should stop and ventilate the patient with 100% oxygen. PVCs are abnormal heartbeats that originate from the ventricles and can be a sign of low oxygen levels. Providing the patient with 100% oxygen helps to improve oxygenation and support the heart's function. Decreasing the suction pressure or administering antidysrhythmic medications are not the indicated actions in this situation.