3rd degree atrioventricular block

Question 1

What is 3rd degree AVB ?

Answer 1

No coordinated connection between the atria and the ventricles causing them to depolarise independently meaning there is no conduction through the AV node.

Question 2

What is 3rd degree AVB also known as?

Answer 2

Complete heart block

Question 3

How I 3rd degree AVB recognised?

Answer 3

• Regular p wave activity there is no relation to QRS complexes.
• Ventricular rate less than 40 BPM
• No consistent conduction symmetry between P-wave and QRS complex

Question 4

What leads are 3rd degree AVB present in?

Answer 4

All leads

Make sure to review LII and V1

Question 5

Signs and symptoms of 3rd degree AVB ?

Answer 5

-Chest pain

• Palpitations

-Bradycardia

• Shock (Pale, cold, clammy skin, hypotension, delayed CRT, Tachypnoea, LOC, Anxiety).

Question 6

Significance 3rd degree AVB?

Answer 6

• May lead to cardiac arrest
• Requires time critical transfer with consideration for pacing and continuous cardiac monitoring.