A Patient Reports Heart Palpitation but No Other Symptoms and Has

question 2

Multiple Choice

A patient reports heart palpitation but no other symptoms and has no prior history of cardiovascular disease. The clinic provider performs an electrocardiogram and notes atrial fibrillation and a heart rate of 120 beats per minute. Which is the initial course of action in treating this patient?

• A) Administer atenolol intravenously.
• B) Admit to the hospital for urgent cardioversion.
• C) Refer the patient to a cardiologist.
• D) Initiate steps to begin anticoagulant therapy.

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Definitions:

Autonomic Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary body functions, such as heartbeat, digestion, and breathing.

James-Lange Theory

A theory of emotion that suggests our physiological reactions to stimuli (e.g., trembling, sweating) precede and give rise to the emotional experience (e.g., fear).

Conscious Interpretation

The mental process of assigning meaning to perceptions, thoughts, or feelings within one's awareness.

Complex Feelings

Emotions that are multifaceted, often involving a mixture of different feelings that are not easily described by basic emotions.