A client's ECG reveals a rapid atrial rate of 300 beats/min, and the P waves resemble a picket fence without 1:1 conduction. The nurse would identify this dysrhythmia as
A) atrial fibrillation.
B) atrial flutter.
C) paroxysmal atrial tachycardia.
D) sinoatrial block.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atrial flutter is a dysrhythmia arising in an ectopic pacemaker or the site of a rapid reentry circuit in the atria, characterized by rapid "saw-toothed" atrial wave formations and usually a slower ventricular response. Atrial flutter differs from PAT in that it produces a much more rapid atrial rate. The P waves are actually inverted or bidirectional, producing a "picket fence" or saw-toothed pattern of "fluttering waves." The atrial rate generally ranges from 220 to 350 beats/min.

A Client's ECG Reveals a Rapid Atrial Rate of 300