NCLEX-PN

○​ Wide QRS complex (>0.12 seconds) ○​ Presence of T waves

Potential causes include myocardial infarction, hyperkalemia, drugs (e.g., digitalis), cardiomyopathy, metabolic imbalances. Symptoms and treatment are similar to idioventricular rhythm. Immediate intervention may be required in severe cases.

b.​ Agonal Rhythm Agonal rhythm is a type of idioventricular rhythm with a rate of <20 beats per minute . It often occurs when emergency medical measures to save a person's life are unsuccessful. The rhythm is typically regular, and P waves are absent. The PR interval is unmeasurable, and QRS complexes are wide with an abnormal T wave deflection. Causes can be myocardial infarction, trauma, end-of-life changes. This rhythm is life-threatening, and immediate CPR and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols should be initiated if the client has chosen life-saving treatments.

●​ Ventricular Tachycardia Ventricular tachycardia occurs when no impulses come from the atria, potentially progressing to ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest unless immediate medical care is provided. The cardiac rate ranges from 101 to 250 beats per minute . The ventricular rhythm is regular, but the atrial rhythm cannot be distinguished. There are no P waves, and the PR interval is not measurable. QRS complexes are wide (>0.12 seconds). Risk factors include severe cardiac disease, myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, digitalis toxicity, electrolyte imbalances, heart failure, and certain medications. Symptoms may include hemodynamic compromise, unconsciousness, angina chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, syncope, hypotension, and the absence of a pulse or a rapid pulse rate. Immediate

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