Which condition is associated with a run of wide QRS complex tachycardia triggered by a premature ventricular contraction?

Study for the Barron/Elsevier CCRN Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

The condition associated with a run of wide QRS complex tachycardia triggered by a premature ventricular contraction (PVC) is indeed ventricular tachycardia. Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is characterized by a heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute, where the QRS complexes are wide because they originate from the ventricles rather than the atria.

In the context of this question, the presence of a PVC can trigger episodes of VT, especially if the PVC falls on the T wave of the preceding heartbeat, creating a vulnerable period where the myocardium is more susceptible to depolarization. This mechanism can lead to a series of rapid ventricular contractions, contributing to the wide QRS complexes seen on the ECG during episodes of VT.

Understanding the underlying mechanisms and characteristics of these conditions is critical in critical care nursing, especially for effective identification and management of dysrhythmias and their potential implications for patient stability and treatment options.

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