The nurse is caring for a patient who suddenly develops bradycardia. The patient is breathing but with a decreased level of consciousness and decreased blood pressure. Which of the following treatments would be done by the nurse first?
A) Begin CPR
B) Administer atropine IV
C) Application of a transcutaneous pacemaker
D) Discontinue cardioversion
Ans: C
Feedback: If a patient suddenly develops bradycardia, emergency pacing may be started with a transcutaneous pacemaker, which most defibrillators are now able to perform. If the patient is alert, sedation and analgesia should be used. CPR would not be initiated because the patient has a pulse and is breathing.
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