The nurse is caring for a patient that suffered from a myocardial infarction. While monitoring the patient's electrocardiogram (EKG), the nurse may observe which of the following?

Explanation

• Myocardial infarctions cause cardiac tissue hypoxia leading to ST-elevation, pathological Q-wave, and T-wave inversion.

• Prolonged PR interval is seen with a first-degree block.

• U-waves represent the repolarization of the Purkinje fibers or papillary muscles. U-waves may be present in healthy patients, but may be a sign of electrolyte imbalances.

• An irregular PR interval is seen in second-degree blocks.

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