Nurse John is caring for a male client receiving lidocaine I.V. Which factor is the most relevant to the administration of this medication?
A. Decrease in arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) when measured with a pulse oximeter
B. Increase in systemic blood pressure
C. Presence of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) on a cardiac monitor
D. Increase in intracranial pressure (ICP)
Correct Answer: C. Presence of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) on a cardiac monitor.
Lidocaine drips are commonly used to treat clients whose arrhythmias haven’t been controlled with oral medication and who are having PVCs that are visible on the cardiac monitor.
Option A: This should be reported to the physician but it is not the priority in this situation.
Option B: An increase in the blood pressure is also significant, but does not need immediate attention.
Option D: Increase in ICP is an important factor but isn’t as significant as PVCs in the situation.