The nurse is assessing the cardiac rhythm of a patient with coronary artery disease (CAD). The heart monitor shows isolated premature ventricular contractions (PVC). What should the nurse do next?
Explanation
• Isolated PVCs are not life threatening, but should be monitored closely for other rhythm changes that may follow
• Atrial fibrillation may develop in someone with frequent PVCs. Other life threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia are less common, but possible
• Incorrect: The other choices are incorrect because this rhythm is not life-threatening and does not require notification of the provider or intervention at this time