Dysrhythmia

Dysrhythmia

(Dysrhythmia)

Dysrhythmia refers to abnormal heart rhythms that disrupt the regular beating pattern of the heart. The heart’s normal rhythm is maintained by the synchronized electrical impulses that regulate contractions. Dysrhythmias can manifest as irregular heartbeats, too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (bradycardia). Causes include heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, medications, or congenital factors.

Tachyarrhythmias involve accelerated heart rates, potentially leading to insufficient blood supply. Ventricular tachycardia, for instance, can be life-threatening. On the other hand, bradyarrhythmias involve a slower heart rate, reducing cardiac output. Severe bradycardias may cause dizziness, fainting, or cardiac arrest.

Diagnostic tools such as electrocardiograms (ECGs) help identify dysrhythmias. Treatment options vary based on the specific condition, ranging from medications to implantable devices like pacemakers or defibrillators. Lifestyle modifications, such as managing stress and adopting a heart-healthy diet, can be beneficial.

Management requires a collaborative approach involving cardiologists, electrophysiologists, and other healthcare professionals. Regular monitoring and follow-ups are crucial to assess treatment efficacy and adjust interventions as needed. Overall, understanding and addressing dysrhythmias are essential to prevent complications and promote cardiovascular health.

Your written assignment for this module should be a 2-3 page paper (not including title page and reference page).

A 78-year old woman is admitted to a Medical unit directly from her physician’s office for evaluation and management of congestive heart failure. She has a history of systemic hypertension.

The initial assessment completed by the RN of the assigned patient reveals a pulse rate that is rapid and very irregular. The patient is restless, her skin is pale and cool, she states she is dizzy when she stands up and she is slightly short of breath and anxious. Her BP is 106/88. Her ECG monitor pattern shows uncontrolled atrial fibrillation with a heart rate ranging from 150 -170 beats/min. Her respirations are 20/min and her O2 saturation is 90%.

1. Given the findings, what should be the first action of the practical nurse?
2. What additional data would the practical nurse collect?
3. Discuss the potential complications of cardioversion and patient preparation for an elective cardioversion. Because the length of time the patient has been in atrial fibrillation is unknown, what adverse reaction may occur?

Later that evening the patient calls the nurse because she feels “like something terrible is going to happen.” She reports chest pain, has increased shortness of breath, and has coughed up blood-tinged sputum.

1. Based on these symptoms, what might you suspect is happening?
2. What is the first thing the practical nurse should do and what further information would you expect to be collected?

You should include a minimum of 3 references. Include a title page, in-text citations, and a reference page in APA format.