Arrhythmias

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

digitalis toxicity

hypokalemia

acute infections

hemorrhage

anginal syndrome

coronary insufficiency

Question 2

S&S

Answer 2

weakness

fatigue

palpitations

confusion

dizziness

hypertension

bradycardia

syncope

Question 3

Tx

Answer 3

tranquilizers

antiarrhythmic drugs

digitalis

pottasium supplements

modifying diet, smoking, drinking, and activity patterns

Question 4

Nursing considerations

Answer 4

digitalis toxicity can progress without S&S and with the blood levels in the normal range

effects can show up even 2 weeks after discontinuation of digitalis

educate the pt about the disease, Tx, recommended dietary & activity changes, & symptoms to report ASAP (palpitations, edema, weight gain, etc)

Question 5

Atrial fibrillation (A-Fib)

Answer 5

a quivering or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications

commonly occurs among ppl with structural defects & comorbidities

can be asymptomatic in the early stages

S&S:

• palpitations
• irregular pulse
• SOB
• chest pain
• fatigue
• dizziness
• delirium

Question 6

Paroxysmal A-Fib

Answer 6

A-Fib comes on rapidly & resolves on its own