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.
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• 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.

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