A patient experiences dizziness and shortness of breath for several days. During cardiac monitoring in the ED, the nurse obtains the following ECG tracing.
The nurse interprets this cardiac rhythm as

Question

A patient experiences dizziness and shortness of breath for several days. During cardiac monitoring in the ED, the nurse obtains the following ECG tracing. 
The nurse interprets this cardiac rhythm as

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inconsistency between the atrial and ventricular rates and the variable PR interval indicate that the rhythm is third-degree AV block. Sinus rhythm with PACs or PVCs will have a normal rate and consistent PR intervals with occasional PACs or PVCs. A junctional escape rhythm will not have P waves.

A Patient Experiences Dizziness and Shortness of Breath for Several