Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Simulated
A nurse is providing care for a client following a cardiac arrest due to pulseless electrical activity (PEA). Which of the following alterations are causes of PEA? (Select All that Apply.)
Correct answer
B,C,D
Rationale
Hypovolemia, hypoxia, and hyperkalemia are direct causes of PEA. Hypovolemia reduces circulating blood volume, impairing cardiac output. Hypoxia compromises myocardial function due to inadequate oxygenation. Hyperkalemia disrupts cardiac electrical activity, leading to ineffective contractions.