Question

A nurse on a. cardiac unit is caring for a group of clients. The nurse should recognize which of the following clients as being at risk for the development of a dysrhythmia? (Select all that apply.)

A. A client who has metabolic alkalosis.
B. A client who has a blood potassium level of 4.3 mEq/L.
C. A client who has an SaO2 of 96%.
D. A client who has COPD.
E. A client who underwent stent placement in a coronary artery.

Answer 1

Clients with metabolic alkalosis and COPD are at risk for dysrhythmias. Normal levels of potassium (4.3 mEq/L) and SaO2 of 96% don't pose a risk. A history of stent placement by itself does not indicate a heightened risk unless accompanied by other conditions.

The nurse should recognize that the following clients are at risk for the development of a dysrhythmia: A client who has metabolic alkalosis and a client who has COPD. Metabolic alkalosis can lead to altered cardiac enzyme activity and can promote dysrhythmias.

A client with COPD may experience hypoxia, which can also lead to alterations in heart rhythm. However, a client with a blood potassium level of 4.3 mEq/L is within the normal range, and a client with an SaO2 of 96% is not typically at risk. A client who underwent stent placement may be at risk if they have other underlying conditions but having a stent alone is not inherently associated with dysrhythmias.

So, the nurse should pay special attention to the clients with metabolic alkalosis and COPD due to their increased risk of developing cardiac dysrhythmias.