FULL TEST BANK For Introduction to Critical Care Nursing 8th Edition by Mary Lou Sole Latest Update Graded A+

4. When assessing the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) or a rhythm strip, it is helpful to understand that the electrical activity is viewed in relation to the positive electrode of that particular lead. What is the effect on the inflection when an electrical signal is aimed directly at the positive electrode? a. Negative b. Upside down c. Upright d. Equally positive and negative ANS: C When an electrical signal is aimed directly at the positive md/tee,stan upright inflection is visualized. If the impulse is going away from the positive electrode, a negative deflection is seen; and if the signal is perpendicular to the imaginary line between the positive and negative poles of the lead, the tracing is equiphasic, with equally positive and negative deflection. DIF: Cognitive Level: Comprehension OBJ: Explain the relationships between electrical and mechanical events in the heart. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Assessment MSC: NCLEX: Physiological Integrity 5. The patient is admitted with a condition that requires cardiac rhythm monitoring. To apply the monitoring electrodes, the nurse must first take what action? a. Apply a moist gel to the chest. b. Make certain that the electrode gel is dry. c. Avoid soaps to avoid skin irritation. d. Clip chest hair if needed. ANS: D Adequate skin preparation of electrode sites requires clipping the hair, cleansing the skin, and drying vigorously (moisture gels are not applied). Cleansing includes washing with soap and water, or alcohol, to remove skin debris and oils. Before application, the electrodes are checked to ensure that the gel is moist. It is difficult for electrodes to adhere to the chest in the presence of chest hair. Clipping, not shaving, is recommended since shaving may create small nicks that can become a portal for infection. DIF: Cognitive Level: Application OBJ: Explain the relationships between electrical and mechanical events in the heart. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation MSC: NCLEX: Physiological Integrity