The patient is admitted with a fever and rapid heart rate.The patient's temperature is 103° F ( 39.4° C ).The nurse places the patient on a cardiac monitor and finds the patient's atrial and ventricular rates are above 105 beats per minute.P waves are clearly seen and appear normal in configuration.QRS complexes are normal in appearance and 0.08 seconds wide.The rhythm is regular,and blood pressure is normal.The nurse should focus on providing:
A) medications to lower heart rate.
B) treatment to lower temperature.
C) treatment to lower cardiac output.
D) treatment to reduce heart rate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sinus tachycardia results when the SA node fires faster than 100 beats per minute.All other components of the ECG are normal.Sinus tachycardia is a normal response to stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.Sinus tachycardia is also a normal finding in children younger than 6 years.The fast heart rhythm may cause a decrease in cardiac output because of the shorter filling time for the ventricles.Lowering cardiac output further may complicate the situation.The dysrhythmia itself is not treated,but the cause is identified and treated appropriately.For example,if the patient has a fever or is in pain,the fever (and infection)or pain is treated appropriately.

The Patient Is Admitted with a Fever and Rapid Heart