A patient develops ventricular tachycardia on the cardiac monitor.The patient says,"My heart is racing" as the nurse determines a rapid pulse is present.What is the nurse's priority intervention?
A)Call respiratory therapy to prepare a mechanical ventilator.
B)Draw blood for arterial blood gases.
C)Prepare for a change in intravenous fluid being administered.
D)Monitor the patient for loss of consciousness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority intervention when a patient develops ventricular tachycardia is to monitor the patient for loss of consciousness. Ventricular tachycardia can lead to decreased cardiac output and inadequate blood flow to important organs such as the brain. Therefore, assessing the patient's level of consciousness is crucial in determining the severity of the condition and guiding further interventions. The other options listed (A, B, and C) may be important interventions in certain situations, but they are not the priority in this scenario.

A Patient Develops Ventricular Tachycardia on the Cardiac Monitor