Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 89%
Simulated
The nurse analyzed an electrocardiogram (ECG) strip (refer to figure) for a client demonstrating left-sided heart failure and interprets the ECG strip as which rhythm?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Atrial fibrillation is characterized by rapid, chaotic atrial depolarization. Ventricular rates may be less than 100 beats per minute (controlled) or greater than 100 beats per minute (uncontrolled). The ECG reveals chaotic or no identifiable P waves and an irregular ventricular rhythm. A sinus dysrhythmia has a normal P wave and PR interval and QRS complex. In ventricular fibrillation, there are no identifiable P waves, QRS complexes, or T waves.