PAC's

Question 1

What are PAC’s considered?

Answer 1

An atrial dysrhythmia

Question 2

Is there a P wave?

Answer 2

Yes; its premature and abnormally shaped or hidden

Question 3

How does a PAC occur?

Answer 3

An ectopic focus in the atria fires before the next SA node impulse is due. This causeses atrial depolarization. Its premature BC it happens before the next expected heart beat.

Question 4

Is there a QRS?

Answer 4

YES;

Question 5

Is there a PR interval

Answer 5

Yes; its normal and <.20 seconds

Question 6

Is the rate regular?

Answer 6

No!

Question 7

Is the rhythm regular?

Answer 7

NO! BC of the premature beat the rhythm is irregular.

Question 8

What’s the heart doing during a PAC?

Answer 8

Another cell is firing and wants to be the boss. This other cell fires before the SA node can.

Question 9

What type of lifestyle changes should I teach a pt. With frequent PAC’c?

Answer 9

1. Stress reduction techniques
2. Limit caffeine
3. Limit alcohol
4. Exercise regularly
5. Get adequate sleep

Question 10

What are some common treatments for PAC’s?

Answer 10

1. Infrequent PAC’s = Monitor pt.
2. Increased frequency of PAC’s = AMIODERONE
3. Count number of PAC’s
4. Name underlying rhythm

Question 11

What are some common causes of PAC’s?

Answer 11

1. SNS Stimulation
2. Anxiety
3. Hypoxia
4. Ischemia

Question 12

What can increase PAC frequency?

Answer 12

1. Anasthetics & Amphetamines
2. Caffeine & Catecholamines
3. Marijuana & Nicotine
4. Hyperthyroidism.