A client with palpitations is admitted with supraventricular tachycardia. The client's heart rate is 210/min. Which is the most appropriate initial intervention?

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Clients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (regular, narrow QRS complex tachycardia) are initially treated with vagal maneuvers. The act of "bearing down" as if having a bowel movement (Valsalva) is an example of these maneuvers and may need to be attempted more than once. Vagal maneuvers work by increasing intra-thoracic pressure and stimulating the vagus nerve, which supplies parasympathetic nerve fibers to the heart, resulting in slowed electrical conduction through the atrioventricular node. (Option B) Cardioversion (not defibrillation) is used with this type of arrhythmia when it is refractory to medication. Cardioversion delivers a synchronized electrical current to the heart. This works by stopping the electrical activity to the heart and briefly allowing a normal heartbeat to return. (Option C) An ECG is used to diagnose SVT and can be obtained while or after the client is asked to perform the vagal maneuvers as it is not therapeutic. (Option D) Adenosine is the drug of choice to treat SVT and has a 5- to 6-second half-life (the time it takes for the drug to be reduced to half of its original concentration). Placing the IV line as close as possible, not distal, to the heart is essential for the drug to have full effect. Adenosine is given rapidly over 1-2 seconds and then followed by a rapid 20-mL normal saline flush. Transient asystole is common, and clients often experience flushing and dizziness. Educational objective: Supraventricular tachycardia is a regular, narrow QRS complex tachycardia with a rate of around 150-220/min. The best treatment is vagal maneuvers and adenosine IV push.

A Client with Palpitations Is Admitted with Supraventricular Tachycardia