Atrial Dysrhythmias pt.2 (Exam 2)

Question 1

PSVT stands for

Answer 1

Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia

Question 2

PSVT originates

Answer 2

in ectopic focus anywhere above bifurcation of bundle of His (ventricles)

Question 3

A run of PVST is initiated and started with

Answer 3

PAC

Question 4

Paroxysmal means

Answer 4

abrupt onset and termination

Question 5

What causes PSVT

Answer 5

Normal Heart
-overexertion
-emotional stress
-stimulants

Digitalis toxicity

Various forms of heart disease

Question 6

What will the patient look like with PSVT

Answer 6

Depends on how long it last and how fast the ventricular rate is

See “Key features”

Question 7

How do we treat PSVT?

Answer 7

Vagal maneuvers (should be on monitor)
-Hold breath 10-15 sec bearing down to see neck view distention then resume breathing

Coughing

Carotid Sinus Massage (MD only)

Diving reflex/cold water immersion (rarely used in modern medicine)

Question 8

Pharmacological treatment of PSVT

Answer 8

Adenosine IV push

Question 9

Adenosine IV push

Answer 9

-Very short half life (follow w/ rapid NS flush)

-May cause a pause on rhythm strip, patient may be aware

-Onset = 10-40 seconds / duration 1-2 minutes

Question 10

Adenosine

Answer 10

Slows heart rate down

Question 11

Atropine

Answer 11

Speeds heart rate up

Question 12

What do you use to push adenosine

Answer 12

stop cock

Question 13

If vagal maneuvers and drug therapy does not fix PSVT and patient become hemodynamically unstable, then what should be used?

Answer 13

Cardioversion