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

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inconsistency between the atrial and ventricular rates and the variable P-R interval indicate that the rhythm is third-degree AV block. Sinus rhythm with PACs or PVCs will have a normal rate and consistent P-R 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