On admitting a client, the nurse finds that there is a history of myoc

On admitting a client, the nurse finds that there is a history of myocardial ischemia. The most disconcerting dysrhythmia for electrocardiography to reveal is:

1. Sinus bradycardia
2. Sinus dysrhythmia
3. Ventricular tachycardia
4. Atrial fibrillation

ANSWER

ANS: 3
Ventricular tachycardia would be the most disconcerting dysrhythmia of the four options. Ven-tricular tachycardia results in a decreased cardiac output; it may lead to severe hypotension and loss of pulse rate and consciousness. Sinus bradycardia would not be of concern for this client. It is of no clinical significance unless it is associated with signs and symptoms of a decreased car-diac output. Sinus dysrhythmia is of no clinical significance unless dizziness occurs with a de-creased rate. Atrial fibrillation is not as detrimental as ventricular tachycardia.