A nurse is caring for a client following a synchronized cardioversion. Which of the following findings indicates a therapeutic response to the treatment?

Rationale: A. Pacer spikes precede the QRS complex on the ECG tracing: Pacer spikes indicate that the client has a cardiac pacemaker delivering electrical stimuli to initiate ventricular depolarization. While appropriate for clients with bradyarrhythmias, this finding does not reflect the outcome of synchronized cardioversion for tachyarrhythmias. B. Weak peripheral pulses on palpation: Weak peripheral pulses suggest poor cardiac output or peripheral perfusion, which can occur with ongoing arrhythmias, hypotension, or low stroke volume. This is not a desired therapeutic outcome and may indicate that the cardioversion did not achieve adequate cardiac rhythm restoration or that additional hemodynamic support is needed. C. Cardiac monitor indicates sinus rhythm: Restoration of sinus rhythm on the cardiac monitor indicates that synchronized cardioversion successfully terminated the abnormal tachyarrhythmia and re-established normal atrial and ventricular electrical activity. Sinus rhythm correlates with improved hemodynamics, organized atrial contraction, and enhanced cardiac output. D. Diminished breath sounds on auscultation: Diminished breath sounds are indicative of pulmonary complications such as atelectasis, pleural effusion, or airway obstruction. This finding does not relate to the effectiveness of cardioversion and may signal an unrelated respiratory issue requiring assessment and intervention.