Question

A client is having an exercise electrocardiography (stress test) performed. The nurse recognizes the need to stop the test if which of the following occurs? a. The client begins to breathe harder b. The client experiences an increase in heart rate. c. An ST segment depression or T wave inversion on the EKG. d. QRS complexes begin to occur more frequently.

Answer 1

In an exercise electrocardiography (stress test), the test must be stopped if ST segment depression or T wave inversion appears on the EKG. These are signs of myocardial ischemia, a precursor to a potential heart attack. Increased breathing, heart rate, and frequent QRS complexes are normal physical responses to exercise.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse carrying out an exercise electrocardiography (stress test) should stop the test when the client reveals an ST segment depression or T wave inversion on the EKG. These changes may indicate myocardial ischemia, a condition where the heart muscle isn't getting enough oxygen. It's important to recognize these signs as they can precede a myocardial infarction (MI), which is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. The other conditions like increased breathing, heart rate, and frequent QRS complexes are generally normal responses to exercise.

During a stress test, EKG patterns such as changes in the P wave, Q wave, and QRS complex are keenly monitored. Changes in the T wave or elevation of the ST segment above the baseline are indicative of changes in the heart's ability to receive and utilize oxygen. It's imperative for healthcare providers to know that while the interpretation of an EKG is possible and extremely valuable after some training, a full understanding of the complexities and intricacies generally requires several years of experience.

Learn more about Exercise electrocardiography