Question

During an apical pulse assessment on a child, the nurse notices an increasing HR every time the child inhales and a decreasing HR every time the child exhales. What should the nurse suspect?

Answer 1

The nurse should suspect that the child is experiencing sinus arrhythmia, which is a normal variation in heart rate that occurs with breathing. Sinus arrhythmia is characterized by an increasing heart rate during inspiration and a decreasing heart rate during expiration. It is important for the nurse to recognize sinus arrhythmia as a normal finding and not a cause for concern.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should suspect that the child is experiencing sinus arrhythmia, which is a normal variation in heart rate that occurs with breathing. Sinus arrhythmia is characterized by an increasing heart rate during inspiration and a decreasing heart rate during expiration. It is commonly seen in children and young adults, especially during periods of relaxation or sleep.For example, when the child inhales, the increased negative pressure in the thoracic cavity causes blood to return to the heart more quickly, leading to an increased heart rate. Conversely, when the child exhales, the reduced negative pressure in the thoracic cavity slows down the return of blood to the heart, resulting in a decreased heart rate.It is important for the nurse to recognize sinus arrhythmia as a normal finding and not a cause for concern. However, if the nurse suspects any other abnormality or if the child is experiencing other symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary.