The nurse is caring for a patient with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). What should the nurse keep in mind about this heart rhythm?
1. PVCs are insignificant in people with no history of heart disease.
2. PVCs typically have no pattern.
3. The frequency of PVCs is not associated with specific events.
4. Their incidence and significance has no relevance to the patient having had a myocardial infarction.
Correct Answer: 1
PVCs often have no significance in people without history of heart disease. PVCs may be isolated or occur in specific patterns. They may be triggered by anxiety or stress; tobacco, alcohol or caffeine use; hypoxia, acidosis, and electrolyte imbalances; sympathomimetic drugs; and coronary heart disease. They may be associated with an increased risk for lethal dysrhythmias and their incidence and significance is greatest after myocardial infarction.
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