Which intervention is appropriate for treating PVCs?

The appropriate intervention for treating premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) often includes administering oxygen and lidocaine. PVCs are extra heartbeats originating in the ventricles that can disrupt normal heart rhythm. When PVCs occur, especially if they are symptomatic or frequent, it's crucial to optimize oxygenation, as hypoxia can contribute to arrhythmias.

Lidocaine, an antiarrhythmic medication, is effective in stabilizing the cardiac membrane and reducing the frequency of PVCs. It works by blocking sodium channels during depolarization, which helps to suppress ectopic foci in the ventricles and can restore normal rhythm.

In contrast, the other options provided do not effectively address the treatment for PVCs. Increasing fluid intake may be beneficial in cases of dehydration but does not specifically target the underlying electrical instabilities causing PVCs. A thoracotomy, a surgical procedure to open the chest, is not indicated for PVCs as these do not usually require surgical intervention. Lastly, using a defibrillator immediately is appropriate for life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, but is not necessary for PVCs unless they are associated with more severe hemodynamic instability. Thus, administering oxygen