The physician is preparing for cardioversion of a patient with a cardiac arrhythmia. The nurse places the conductive pads at:

Explanation

• In general, anterolateral paddle placement is used for cardioversion

• For anterolateral paddle placement: One paddle should be placed at the right second midclavicular intercostal space (upper right chest) and the other at the left fifth intercostal space at the midaxillary line (over the heart)

• Anterior-posterior placement can be used and is more effective for cardioversion of persistent atrial fibrillation. For anterior-posterior placement: one paddle is placed at the right second midclavicular intercostal space (upper right chest) and the other paddle is placed between the tip of the left scapula and the spine on the back

• The other locations for paddle placement are incorrect

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!