Today’s NCLEX-RN® question of the day focuses on a nurse taking care of an infant with SVT.
A 3-month-old infant with a heart rate of 220 beats per minute is diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
A. Identify possible causes such as recently administered medications
B. Assess capillary refill
C. Apply warmed blankets
D. Prepare an ice pack
Scroll down for the correct answer!
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The correct answer to today’s NCLEX-RN® Question is…
D. Prepare an ice pack
Rationale: Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is an abnormally rapid heart rhythm originating above the ventricles, resulting in decreased ventricular filling and low cardiac output. Initial treatment of supraventricular tachycardia is directed at slowing the heart rate and restoring hemodynamic stability. Vagal maneuvers (e.g. applying ice to the face above the nose and mouth for a few seconds) will temporarily slow the heart rate. Other interventions include administration of adenosine and synchronized cardioversion.
Main takeaway
An initial treatment of SVT includes performing vagal maneuvers to temporarily slow the heart rate.
Incorrect answer explanations
A. Identify possible causes such as recently administered medications
Rationale: Some medications are potential causes of SVT, but this would not be the first intervention.
B. Assess capillary refill
Rationale: Signs of poor perfusion such as delayed capillary refill, hypotension, or pallor would be included in the nurse’s clinical assessment, but this would not be the first intervention.
C. Apply warmed blankets
Rationale: Warmed blankets can be used after stabilization to prevent heat loss, but this is not the first intervention.
References
Urden, L. D., Stacy, K. M., & Lough, M. E. (2014). Critical care nursing: Diagnosis and management (7th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.
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