A nurse caring for a client started on ibutilide (Corvert). Which assessment is a priority?

• A. Blood pressure measurement
• B. BUN and creatinine
• C. ECG
• D. Lung sounds

Answer: (C)

Ibutilide can prolong the QT interval and trigger torsades de pointes, a potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Because this risk is tied directly to the heart’s electrical activity, the priority is continuous ECG monitoring to detect QT prolongation or new arrhythmias as the drug is given. This allows immediate action if the QT interval lengthens or torsades develops, such as stopping the infusion and correcting electrolytes. While blood pressure, kidney function, and lung status are important for overall care, they do not address the acute arrhythmic risk associated with ibutilide as effectively as real-time ECG monitoring. Continuous ECG in a monitored setting is essential to ensure safe administration.