Sinus bradycardia (rate 56 beats per minute) is identified in a sleeping patient on telemetry. Which is the priority nursing action?
1. Assess the patient's tolerance of the rhythm.
2. Call the physician and report this dysrhythmia.
3. Check the medication administration record and see if there is a PRN medication that will improve this rhythm.
4. Call for an immediate 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
1
Rationale 1: The nurse should always assess the patient's tolerance of any rhythm. Sinus bradycardia should only be treated if the patient is symptomatic.
Rationale 2: Notifying the physician without first assessing the patient's response would not be appropriate.
Rationale 3: The patient should be evaluated first to determine how the dysrhythmia is affecting heart function.
Rationale 4: Ordering an ECG is not indicated at this time.
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