Question

67. The nurse is assessing an ECG strip for a 42 year old client and finds a regular rate greater than 100, a normal QRS complex, a normal P wave in front of each QRS, a PR interval between 0.12 and 0.20 seconds, and a p:QRS ration 1:1. What is the nurse's interpretation of this rhythm?

A. Premature atrial complex

B. Sinus tachycardia

C. Atrial flutter

D. Supraventricular tachycardia

Answer 1

The heart rate greater than 100, regular atrial and ventricular rhythm, PR interval 0.12 to 0.20 seconds and P: QRS ratio 1:1 indicates sinus tachycardia. In the premature atrial complex, the rhythm is irregular, the heartbeat occurs early and at an irregular pace. In atrial flutter, P waves are replaced by F waves. In supraventricular tachycardia the heart rate is more than 150 beats and the PR interval will be undetermined. Option B is the correct answer.