After a myocardial infarction,a patient presents with an increasing frequency of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).The patient's heart rate is 110 beats/min,and electrocardiogram (ECG)indicates a sinus rhythm with up to five unifocal PVCs per minute.The patient is alert and responsive and denies any chest pain or dyspnea.What action should the nurse take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)are frequently present after myocardial infarction,they are not always benign.In individuals with underlying heart disease,PVCs or episodes of self-terminating ventricular tachycardia (VT)are potentially malignant.Nonsustained VT is defined as three or more consecutive premature ventricular beats at a rate faster than 110 beats/min lasting less than 30 seconds.The patient does not appear symptomatic from the PVCs at this time; therefore,lidocaine is not indicated.Cardizem is not prescribed for ventricular ectopy.

After a Myocardial Infarction,a Patient Presents with an Increasing Frequency