The nurse admits a client to the emergency department with new-onset atrial fibrillation and a heart rate of 168 beats per minute.The client is complaining of dizziness and shortness of breath.The nurse starts an intravenous line in anticipation of administering which drug?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's symptoms suggest that they may be experiencing hemodynamic compromise, so urgent pharmacological intervention is necessary. Ibutilide is the best initial choice of drug for pharmacological cardioversion in a client with new-onset atrial fibrillation who is unstable. It has a rapid onset of action and can achieve chemical cardioversion within minutes. Digoxin and Lidocaine are not effective for treating atrial fibrillation, while Disopyramide is contraindicated in clients with heart failure.

The Nurse Admits a Client to the Emergency Department with New-Onset