In order to correctly manage ventricular dysrhythmias, the nurse would expect to implement which treatment?

Question

1. Magnesium sulfate to terminate ventricular tachycardia pattern called torsades de pointes that was noted on the ECG strip
2. Potassium chloride (KCl) replacement for a potassium level of 4 mEq/mL
3. Procainamide for developing coarse ventricular fibrillation
4. Synchronized cardioversion after atropine is given for ventricular tachycardia

Answer 1

1
Rationale 1: A magnesium deficiency can result in torsades de pointes. Replacement of magnesium helps the conversion of this dysrhythmia back to normal sinus rhythm (NSR).
Rationale 2: The potassium value of 4 mEq/mL is within the normal range and does not need additional KCL replacement.
Rationale 3: Procainamide is used for ventricular tachycardia (VT) and not for ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF is a cardiac emergency that requires CPR and advanced drug management to correct.
Rationale 4: Atropine will increase the heart rate. Cardioversion might be used for stable VT but not with atropine in the management of VT.