NCLEX RN Practice Question # 659

Answer: Option 4 is the correct answer.

Rationale: Sinus bradycardia is noted with a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute. This rhythm becomes a concern when the client becomes symptomatic. Hypotension and dizziness are signs of decreased cardiac output. Transcutaneous pacing provides a temporary measure to increase the heart rate and thus perfusion in the symptomatic client. Defibrillation is used for treatment of pulseless ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Digoxin will further decrease the client’s heart rate. Continuing to monitor the client delays necessary intervention.
Test-Taking Strategy: Focus on the subject, interventions for sinus bradycardia. Eliminate the option indicating to continue to monitor the client because the client is symptomatic and requires intervention. Digoxin is eliminated because it will further decrease the client’s heart rate. Defibrillation is used for treatment of pulseless ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation, so that option can be eliminated.