Antiarrythmias

Question 0

ClassII

Answer 0

●Class II are beta­blockers which reduce or block SNS stimulation to the heart and transmission of impulses in the cardiac conduction system ­affect mostly slow tissue
●Ventricular tachycardia, atrial tachydysrhythmias
●Esmolol, acebutolol, propranolol

Question 1

Class I

Answer 1

●Generally used to treat life threatening ventricular arrhythmias
●Fallen out of use due to side effects
●Still used/seen include:
•Quinidine, procainamide, lidocaine, mexiletine, propafanone

Question 2

Class II contraindications

Answer 2

•Bradycardia, cardiogenic shock, asthma

Question 3

Class II adverse effects

Answer 3

•Hypotension, bradycardia, bronchospasms (most serious)

Question 4

Class III

Answer 4

●Class III agents increase the action potential duration and affect fast tissue
●Many atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias
●Aminodarone, ibutilide, sotalol

Question 5

ClassIII contraindications

Answer 5

• Bradycardia, heart block, cardiogenic shock

* Pregnancy

Question 6

Class III adverse effects

Answer 6

• Hypotension bradycardia, GI,

* QT prolongation, pulmonary fibrosis

Question 7

Adverse effects drug interaction

Answer 7

• Digoxin

* Warfarin

Question 8

Class IV

Answer 8

●Class IV calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and block the slow channels or calcium­dependent channels
●Used for atrial dysrhythmias, helps to slow
●Diltiazem, verapamil

Question 9

Class IV contraindications

Answer 9

•Heart block, bradycardia, CHF, hypotension, Pregnancy

Question 10

Class IV adverse effects

Answer 10

Hypotension, CHF, edema GI symptoms dizziness, fatigue, headache

Question 11

Anti arrhythmic nursing implications

Answer 11

●Because these are potent drugs, toxic effects are seen in symptom coming from the heart, circulation and central nervous system.
●Thorough drug history many drug interactions
●Pre­administration assessment as required BP. Pulse
●Monitor EKG
●Monitor K+ levels

Question 12

Antiarrythmic pt. teaching

Answer 12

●Take as ordered ­no skipping doses
●Class II ­report weight gain of 2# or more in a week, take medication with meals, not take if pulse less than 60/min
●Class III ­use sunscreen due to photosensitivity
●Class IV ­not take if pulse less than 60/min
●Notify MD immediately if patient has increased SOB, edema, chest pain, dizziness, or syncope.