The nurse notes that a patient on continuous cardiac monitoring has PR intervals that last 0.08 seconds. What should the nurse suspect as the reason for this finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. A PR interval shorter than 0.12 second may indicate that the impulse originated from an ectopic pacemaker in the atria, rather than the SA node, that was located closer to the AV node.
2. A QRS complex that is wider than 0.12 second usually is the result of an electrical impulse originating from an ectopic pacemaker in the ventricles.
3. A PR interval longer than 0.20 second usually indicates a delay in impulse conduction through the atria or AV junction.
4. An abnormally deep Q wave may indicate cardiac cell necrosis from a previous myocardial infarction.

The Nurse Notes That a Patient on Continuous Cardiac Monitoring