Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is on a continuous cardiac monitor. When evaluating the client's rhythm strip, the nurse notes that the QRS interval has increased from 0.08 second to 0.14 second. Based on this finding, the nurse should withhold continued administration of which drug?

1) Metoprolol (Lopressor)
2) Procainamide (Pronestyl)
3) Propafenone (Rythmol)
4) Verapamil (Calan)

Answer 1

In the context of an increased QRS interval on a cardiac rhythm strip, the nurse should consider withholding the administration of Procainamide (Pronestyl), as it is an antiarrhythmic that can cause a widened QRS interval.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse notes that the QRS interval has increased from 0.08 seconds to 0.14 seconds on a client's cardiac rhythm strip, this could be indicative of delayed ventricular conduction. It is crucial to assess which medication might be contributing to this change. Considering the drugs listed, Procainamide (Pronestyl) is known as an antiarrhythmic agent that can cause widened QRS intervals due to its action on the heart's electrical conduction system, specifically by blocking sodium channels. Given this information and the nurse's observation, it would be advised to withhold continued administration of Procainamide (Pronestyl) while further assessment and intervention take place to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.