When might a patient with second-degree block, Mobitz type II, exhibit symptoms of decreased cardiac output?
A)When the rate of ventricular contractions decreases below 40 bpm
B)When the rate of atrial contractions decreases below 60 bpm
C)When the rate of ventricular contractions increases above 60 bpm
D)When the rate of atrial contractions increases above 80 bpm

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In second-degree block, Mobitz type II, not all atrial impulses are conducted to the ventricles. Therefore, the ventricular rate is often slower than the atrial rate. If the ventricular contractions decrease below 40 bpm, the patient may exhibit symptoms of decreased cardiac output. This is because the heart is not pumping effectively enough to maintain adequate blood flow to meet the body's demands.

When Might a Patient with Second-Degree Block, Mobitz Type II