Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 87%
Simulated
A client, admitted to the hospital for evaluation of recurrent runs of ventricular tachycardia, is scheduled for electrophysiology studies (EPS). Which statement should the nurse include in a teaching plan for this client?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The purpose of EPS is to study the heart's electrical system. During this invasive procedure, a special wire is introduced into the heart to produce dysrhythmias. To prepare for this procedure, the client should be NPO for 6 to 8 hours before the test, and all antidysrhythmics are held for at least 24 hours before the test to study the dysrhythmias without the influence of medications. Because the client's verbal responses to the rhythm changes are extremely important, sedation is avoided if possible.