The nurse analyzing a patient's electrocardiogram tracing would suspect atrial fibrillation if it displayed which characteristics? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected
Select all that apply. 1. The atrial rate can be calculated by counting the P waves in 6 seconds and multiplying by 10.
2. P waves are replaced by "f waves," or atrial quivering.
3. The PR intervals are measurable.
4. The ventricular rhythm is irregular.
5. The QT interval cannot be measured because the T waves are buried in the "f" waves.
2,4,5
Rationale 1: In atrial fibrillation there are no P waves; therefore the atrial rate cannot be counted.
Rationale 2: Waves that are seen between R-to-R intervals are called "f" waves, or atrial quivering.
Rationale 3: Because there are no P waves, the PR interval cannot be measured.
Rationale 4: The ventricular rhythm is irregular in atrial fibrillation.
Rationale 5: Because T waves are buried within the "f" waves, the QT interval cannot be measured.
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