Atrial Arrhythmic Drugs Flashcards
What drugs are used for PSVT symptoms?
Adenosine (first line), Verapamil, and Diltiazem
Before you use drugs for PSVT symptoms, what 4 steps should you do?
Unilateral carotid massage, valsalva maneuvers (movements made when using the restroom), induced retching (vomiting), ice water face immersion
What drugs are used for Automatic Atrial Tachycardia’s?
1st line of therapy: verapamil and diltiazem
2nd line of therapy: IV magnesium (high doses)
What are 6 classifications of A fibrillation? (Hint: 3 are general classifications and other 3 are commonly seen)
General: Paroxysmal A-fib, Persistent A-fib, Permanent A-fib
Common: Acute A-fib, Recurrent A-fib, and Recurrent A-fib
Define Paroxysmal A-fib
a-fib terminates spontaneously in less than 7 days
- most a-fibs last less than 24 hrs
- recurrence w/ variable frequency
Define Persistent A-fib
a-fib that continues for more than 7 days and does not terminate on its own
- electrical or pharmacological cardioversion may or may not terminate a-fib
Define Permanent A-fib
does not terminate with the help of electrical or pharmacological cardioversion OR joint decision w/ clinician and patient to cease further
Define Acute A-fib
onset with last 48 hours
Define Recurrent A-fib
when a pt has 2 or more episodes
- this can fall in paroxysmal or persistent A-fib classifications as well
Define Lone A-fib
applies to younger pts (< 60 yo) without evidence of underlying cardiopulmonary disease
- favorable prognosis
What are the 5 steps to manage A-fib and/or A-flutter?
- Start shock if they’re hemodynamically unstable
- Achieve adequate ventricular rate control
- Need for sinus rhythm restoration and maintenance in ALL A-fib pts (controversial)
- Prevent long term complications - Anticoagulation
- Prevent recurrence of A-fib
