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Med Surg 2 > Ekg > Flashcards

Ekg Flashcards

1
Q

What does the P-wave represent in a cardiac cycle?

A

Atrial depolarization

The P-wave is associated with the electrical activity that triggers atrial contraction.

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2
Q

What is the PR interval?

A

The time between atrial depolarization and ventricular depolarization

This interval measures the time it takes for the electrical impulse to travel from the atria to the ventricles.

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3
Q

What does the QRS interval represent?

A

Ventricular depolarization

The QRS complex indicates the electrical activity that leads to ventricular contraction.

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4
Q

What does the T-wave signify in a cardiac cycle?

A

Ventricular repolarization

The T-wave reflects the process of the ventricles relaxing and refilling with blood.

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5
Q

Fill in the blank: DEpolarization = _______.

A

DEcompressing

This term refers to the process during which the heart chambers prepare for the next phase of contraction.

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6
Q

Fill in the blank: REpolarization = _______.

A

RElaxing & REfilling with blood

This process is crucial for the heart to regain its resting state and prepare for the next heartbeat.

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7
Q

What does the term ‘contracting’ refer to in cardiac physiology?

A

The process of the heart chambers tightening to pump blood

This occurs during depolarization when the heart muscle receives electrical signals.

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8
Q

What is the significance of the term ‘endocr’ in the context of cardiac function?

A

It refers to endocrine influences on heart function

Hormones can significantly affect heart rate and contractility.

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9
Q

True or False: The T-wave is associated with atrial contraction.

A

False

The T-wave is related to ventricular repolarization, not atrial contraction.

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10
Q

What is the primary function of the cardiac cycle’s depolarization phase?

A

To initiate contraction of the heart chambers

This phase is essential for effective blood pumping.

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11
Q

What does ‘relaxing’ refer to in the context of cardiac physiology?

A

The phase when the heart muscle relaxes after contraction

This allows the heart chambers to refill with blood.

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12
Q

What is the normal heart rate range for Nermal Sinus Rhythm?

A

60 - 100 bpm

bpm stands for beats per minute.

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13
Q

What is the rhythm characteristic of Nermal Sinus Rhythm?

A

Regular

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14
Q

How do P-waves appear in Nermal Sinus Rhythm?

A

Upright & uniform before each QRS

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15
Q

What is the PR interval in Nermal Sinus Rhythm?

A

Normal

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16
Q

What is the QRS complex in Nermal Sinus Rhythm?

A

Normal

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17
Q

What is Sinus Bradycardia?

A

The sinus node creates an impulse at a slower than-normal rate.

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18
Q

What are some causes of Sinus Bradycardia?

A
  • Lower metabolic needs
  • Sleep
  • Athletic training
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Vagal stimulation
  • Certain medications: calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, amiodarone
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19
Q

Is it normal for athletes to have a low resting heart rate?

A

Yes

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20
Q

What is Sinus Tachycardia?

A

The sinus node creates an impulse at a faster-than-normal rate.

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21
Q

What is the heart rate in Sinus Tachycardia?

A

> 100 bpm

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22
Q

What are some causes of Sinus Tachycardia?

A
  • Physiological or psychological stress
  • Blood loss
  • Fever
  • Exercise
  • Dehydration
  • Infection
  • Sepsis
  • Heart failure
  • Cardiac tamponade
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Certain medications: stimulants (caffeine, nicotine), illicit drugs (cocaine, amphetamines), drugs that stimulate sympathetic response (epinephrine, beta-2 agonists)
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23
Q

What is the treatment for Sinus Tachycardia?

A
  • Correct the underlying cause
  • Return heart rate to normal
  • IV Atropine 0.5 mg every 3-5 min (up to 3 mg max)
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24
Q

What is the rhythm characteristic of Sinus Tachycardia?

A

Regular

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25
Q

How do P-waves appear in Sinus Tachycardia?

A

Upright & uniform before each QRS

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26
Q

What is the PR interval in Sinus Tachycardia?

A

Normal

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27
Q

What is the QRS complex in Sinus Tachycardia?

A

Normal

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28
Q

What is Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)?

A

A rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, generally between 100 - 250 bpm

VT is characterized by irregular, coarse waveforms and no cardiac output.

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29
Q

What are the key characteristics of the QRS complex in Ventricular Tachycardia?

A

Wide (like tombstones) > 0.12 seconds

The appearance of the QRS complex is a crucial diagnostic feature of VT.

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30
Q

What causes Ventricular Tachycardia?

A
  • Myocardial ischemia/infarction
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Digoxin toxicity
  • Stimulants: caffeine & methamphetamine

Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment.

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31
Q

What are the common manifestations of Ventricular Tachycardia?

A
  • Usually awake (unlike V-fib)
  • Chest pain
  • Lethargy
  • Anxiety
  • Syncope
  • Palpitations
  • No cardiac output

Symptoms may vary, but the absence of cardiac output is critical.

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32
Q

What is the treatment for a stable patient with Ventricular Tachycardia who has a pulse?

A
  • Oxygen
  • Antiarrhythmics (e.g., Amiodarone)
  • Synchronized cardioversion

Synchronized cardioversion is crucial and differs from defibrillation.

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33
Q

What should be done for an unstable patient without a pulse due to Ventricular Tachycardia?

A
  • CPR
  • ACLS protocol for defibrillation
  • Possible intubation
  • Drug therapy (e.g., Epinephrine, vasopressin, amiodarone)

This is also referred to as pulseless V-Tach, which requires immediate intervention.

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34
Q

True or False: In Ventricular Tachycardia, P-waves are visible.

A

False

P-waves are typically not visible in VT.

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35
Q

Fill in the blank: Ventricular Tachycardia may lead to _______.

A

[Ventricular Fibrillation]

Untreated VT can progress to life-threatening conditions.

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36
Q

What is the heart rate range for Ventricular Tachycardia?

A

100 - 250 bpm

This rapid rate is a defining characteristic of VT.

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37
Q

What is the rhythm pattern of Ventricular Tachycardia?

A

Regular

While the heart rate is high, the rhythm remains regular.

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38
Q

What is Atrial Fibrillation (A-FIB)?

A

A condition characterized by irregular R-R intervals and quivering in both atriums

A-FIB is a type of arrhythmia and can lead to various complications.

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39
Q

What is the typical heart rate in Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Usually greater than 100 bpm

A-FIB can present with a rapid heart rate due to uncoordinated electrical activity.

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40
Q

What are the characteristics of the P-wave in Atrial Fibrillation?

A

None; fibrillatory waves may exist, but these are not P-waves

The absence of P-waves is a key diagnostic feature of A-FIB.

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41
Q

What is the typical rhythm observed in Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Irregular

A-FIB is marked by an irregular rhythm due to chaotic electrical impulses.

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42
Q

What are common manifestations of Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Asymptomatic, shortness of breath, fatigue, tachycardia, malaise, anxiety, dizziness, palpitations

Many patients may not experience symptoms, but when they do, these are the most common.

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43
Q

What are some endocrine causes of Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Open heart surgery, heart failure, COPD, hypertension, ischemic heart disease

Various conditions can trigger A-FIB, particularly those affecting the heart and lungs.

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44
Q

What is the treatment for a stable patient with Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Oxygen, drug therapy (beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, digoxin, amiodarone), anticoagulant therapy

The goal is to manage symptoms and prevent complications such as blood clots.

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45
Q

What is the risk associated with the pooling of blood in Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Increased risk for blood clots, myocardial infarction (MI), pulmonary embolism (PE), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

This pooling occurs due to the quivering motion of the atria.

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46
Q

What is the primary treatment for an unstable patient with Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Oxygen, cardioversion

Cardioversion is synchronized with the QRS wave to restore normal rhythm.

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47
Q

True or False: Cardioversion is the same as defibrillation.

A

False

Cardioversion is used for A-FIB, while defibrillation is reserved for life-threatening arrhythmias.

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48
Q

Fill in the blank: The atrial quiver causes _______ of blood in the heart.

A

pooling

Pooling increases the risk of thrombus formation and subsequent embolic events.

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49
Q

What do Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) depend on?

A

Depends on the underlying rhythm

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50
Q

How is the rhythm characterized in PVCs?

A

Regular but interrupted due to early P-waves

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51
Q

What may happen to the P-wave during a PVC?

A

Visible but depends on the timing of the PVC (may be hidden)

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52
Q

What is the normal range for the PR interval in PVCs?

A

0.12-0.20 seconds

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53
Q

Describe the QRS complex during a PVC.

A

Sharp, bizarre, and abnormal

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54
Q

List some common causes of PVCs.

A
  • Heart failure
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Myocardial ischemia/infarction
  • Drug toxicity
  • Caffeine, tobacco, alcohol
  • Stress or pain
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55
Q

What are the patterns of PVCs called when they occur in specific sequences?

A
  • Bigeminy: every other beat
  • Trigeminy: every 3rd beat
  • Quadrigeminy: every 4th beat
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56
Q

What is the R-on-T phenomenon in relation to PVCs?

A

PVC arises spontaneously from the repolarization gradient (T-wave) & may precipitate V-fib

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57
Q

What is the recommended treatment for PVCs?

A

Treatment is based on underlying cause

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58
Q

What should be administered if a patient has PVCs?

A
  • Administer oxygen
  • Correct electrolyte imbalances
  • D/C or adjust the drug causing toxicity
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59
Q

What are some manifestations of PVCs?

A
  • May be asymptomatic
  • Feels like heart skipped a beat
  • Is pounding
  • Chest pain
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60
Q

When should a healthcare provider be notified regarding PVCs?

A

If the patient complains of chest pain, if the PVC increases in frequency, or if the PVC occurs on the T-wave (R-on-T phenomenon)

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61
Q

What is Asystole?

A

A non-shockable rhythm characterized by a flatline

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62
Q

List some common causes of Asystole.

A
  • Myocardial ischemia/infarction
  • Heart failure
  • Electrolyte imbalances (common: hypo/hyperkalemia)
  • Severe acidosis
  • Cardiac tamponade
  • Illicit drug overdose
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63
Q

What is the recommended treatment for Asystole?

A

High-quality CPR

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64
Q

What are the steps for performing high-quality CPR?

A
  • Heel of hand on center of chest
  • Arms straight
  • Shoulders aligned over hands
  • Compress at 2-2.4 inches
  • Rate of 100-120 per minute
  • 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths
  • Minimal interruptions
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65
Q

What is Atrial Flutter?

A

A condition where the heart’s electrical signals spread through the atria, causing them to beat too quickly but at a regular rhythm.

Atrial flutter is similar to A-fib but has distinct characteristics in rhythm.

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66
Q

What are the common causes of Atrial Flutter?

A
  • Coronary artery disease (CAD)
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypertension
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Heart failure
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Valvular disease
  • Cardiomyopathy

These conditions can lead to disturbances in heart rhythm.

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67
Q

What is the typical heart rate range for Atrial Flutter?

A

75-150 bpm.

68
Q

How is the rhythm characterized in Atrial Flutter?

A

Usually regular.

69
Q

What is the appearance of the P-wave in Atrial Flutter?

A

‘Sawtooth’-shaped flutter waves.

70
Q

What is the PR interval in Atrial Flutter?

A

Unable to measure.

71
Q

What is the QRS complex like in Atrial Flutter?

A

Usually normal and upright.

72
Q

What are some common manifestations of Atrial Flutter?

A
  • May be asymptomatic
  • Low blood pressure
  • Fatigue/syncope
  • Palpitations
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath

Symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

73
Q

What treatment is recommended for stable patients with Atrial Flutter?

A
  • Drug therapy
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Antiarrhythmics
  • Anticoagulants

These medications help manage heart rhythm and prevent clot formation.

74
Q

What is the risk associated with Atrial Flutter?

A

Pooling of blood in the atria, leading to a risk for clots.

75
Q

What is the first-line treatment for unstable patients with Atrial Flutter?

A

Cardioversion.

76
Q

What distinguishes cardioversion from defibrillation?

A

Cardioversion is synchronized with the QRS wave; defibrillation is used for deadly rhythms.

77
Q

What is Ventricular Fibrillation (V-FIB)?

A

A rapid, disorganized pattern of electrical activity in the ventricle with impulses arising from many different foci.

78
Q

What are the common causes of Ventricular Fibrillation?

A
  • Cardiac injury
  • Medication toxicity
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Untreated ventricular tachycardia

These factors can disrupt normal heart rhythms and lead to critical situations.

79
Q

What are the manifestations of Ventricular Fibrillation?

A
  • Loss of consciousness
  • May not have a pulse or blood pressure
  • Respirations may stop
  • Cardiac arrest

V-FIB is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

80
Q

What is the rate and rhythm of Ventricular Fibrillation?

A

Unknown rate; chaotic and irregular rhythm.

81
Q

What is the appearance of the P-wave, PR interval, and QRS complex in Ventricular Fibrillation?

A

Not visible.

82
Q

What is the primary treatment for Ventricular Fibrillation?

A
  • CPR
  • Oxygen
  • Defibrillation (follow ACLS protocol)
  • Possible intubation
  • Drug therapy (Epinephrine, antiarrhythmics)
  • Possibly magnesium

Immediate response is critical to restore normal heart function.

83
Q

What is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?

A

A condition characterized by a heart rate greater than 100 bpm, often between 180-220 bpm, with a regular rhythm and narrow QRS complex.

SVT occurs due to abnormal electrical activity above the ventricles and AV node.

84
Q

What is the typical heart rate range for Supraventricular Tachycardia?

A

> 100 bpm (often 180-220 bpm)

This indicates a rapid heart rate that can lead to various symptoms.

85
Q

What is the rhythm characteristic of SVT?

A

Regular

The regular rhythm distinguishes SVT from other types of tachycardia.

86
Q

What is the status of P-waves in SVT?

A

None

The absence of P-waves makes it difficult to identify the PR interval.

87
Q

What is the duration of the QRS complex in SVT?

A

Narrow (< 0.12 seconds)

A narrow QRS complex indicates that the electrical impulses are originating above the ventricles.

88
Q

What does ‘SUPRA’ refer to in Supraventricular Tachycardia?

A

Above

This indicates the origin of the abnormal electrical activity in SVT.

89
Q

List two common causes of Supraventricular Tachycardia.

A
  • Accessory electrical pathway
  • Reentering of electrical signals from ventricles to atria

Other causes can include high stress levels and electrolyte imbalances.

90
Q

What is Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?

A

A condition that can cause Supraventricular Tachycardia due to an extra electrical pathway.

It is characterized by a rapid heartbeat and may require specific treatments.

91
Q

What are the manifestations of SVT?

A
  • Hypotension (low BP)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness
  • Chest discomfort

These symptoms result from decreased perfusion.

92
Q

What is Paroxysmal SVT?

A

A type of SVT that occurs intermittently with normal sinus rhythm in between.

This means the rapid heart rate starts and stops suddenly.

93
Q

What is the Valsalva maneuver used for in SVT treatment?

A

A non-pharmacological treatment to help restore normal heart rhythm.

It involves holding one’s breath and bearing down, similar to having a bowel movement.

94
Q

What is a vagal maneuver in the context of SVT?

A

Techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system to relax the heart.

Examples include carotid massage and applying cold water or ice to the face.

95
Q

What is the first-line treatment for stable patients with SVT?

A

Vagal maneuvers

If these do not work, pharmacological treatments may be considered.

96
Q

What are the ABCDs of SVTs?

A
  • Adenosine
  • Beta-Blockers
  • Cardiac Ablation
  • Digoxin

These are treatment options for SVT, especially when non-pharmacological methods fail.

97
Q

What is the recommended treatment for unstable patients with SVT?

A

Synchronized cardioversion

This is an emergency procedure used to restore normal rhythm in patients presenting with severe symptoms.

98
Q

What are P waves?

A

Electrical impulses in the heart that precede the QRS complex.

P waves represent atrial depolarization.

99
Q

What is the relationship between P waves and QRS complexes?

A

One P wave for every QRS complex.

This indicates a normal conduction pathway.

100
Q

What does the PR Interval represent?

A

The time from the start of the P wave to the start of the QRS complex.

It reflects the conduction time through the atria and AV node.

101
Q

What is the normal duration for a PR Interval?

A

0.20 seconds or less.

102
Q

What does it indicate if the PR Interval is greater than 0.20 seconds?

A

1 degree AV block.

103
Q

What are QRS complexes?

A

The electrical impulses that represent ventricular depolarization.

QRS complexes indicate the contraction of the ventricles.

104
Q

What is the relationship between Q waves and P waves?

A

One Q wave for every P wave.

105
Q

What is the QRS Interval?

A

The time from the start of the Q wave to the end of the S wave.

106
Q

What is the normal duration for a QRS Interval?

A

0.12 seconds or less.

107
Q

What does it indicate if the QRS Interval is greater than 0.12 seconds?

A

Bundle Branch Block.

108
Q

What does the T wave represent?

A

Ventricular repolarization.

109
Q

How is the T wave typically characterized?

A

Upright and can be peaked or dull/flat.

110
Q

What does a dull/flat T wave indicate?

A

Emergence of a U wave.

111
Q

What is the QT Interval?

A

The time from the start of the Q wave to the end of the T wave.

112
Q

What is the normal duration for a QT Interval?

A

0.44 seconds or less.

113
Q

What is bradycardia?

A

A slow heart rate, often defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute.

Bradycardia may result from various factors including Valsalva maneuver, gagging, vomiting, suctioning, hypoxia, and certain medications.

114
Q

List some signs and symptoms of bradycardia.

A
  • Pale, cool skin
  • Weakness
  • Syncope
  • Confusion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Hypotension

These symptoms indicate the body’s inadequate response to low heart rate.

115
Q

What is the primary treatment for symptomatic bradycardia?

A

Atropine sulfate and oxygen.

Atropine is administered intravenously at a dosage of 0.5 mg every 3-5 minutes, with a maximum total dose of 3 mg.

116
Q

True or False: Atropine sulfate is administered only if the patient with bradycardia is asymptomatic.

A

False.

Atropine sulfate is only administered if the patient is symptomatic.

117
Q

Fill in the blank: The maximum dose of IV Atropine that can be administered for bradycardia is _______.

A

3 mg

The dosing schedule is 0.5 mg every 3-5 minutes.

118
Q

What additional interventions may be necessary if bradycardia persists?

A

Temporary pacing or permanent pacemaker.

These interventions may be required if the patient does not respond to atropine.

119
Q

What are some underlying causes of Atrial Fibrillation?

A

• Underlying heart disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Caffeine
• Stress
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Transient after open heart surgery

These factors can contribute to the onset of Atrial Fibrillation.

120
Q

What is the atrial rate in Atrial Fibrillation according to an ECG?

A

350-600 bpm

The ventricular response is often greater than 100 bpm.

121
Q

What are the common symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation?

A

• Can be asymptomatic
• Decreased cardiac output
• Heart failure
• Risk for clots

These symptoms can vary significantly among individuals.

122
Q

True or False: Atrial Fibrillation can lead to the formation of blood clots in the heart.

A

True

Blood clots can form due to turbulent blood flow associated with Atrial Fibrillation.

123
Q

Fill in the blank: Atrial Fibrillation can cause _______ in the heart.

A

[blood clot]

The formation of blood clots can increase the risk of stroke.

124
Q

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

A

An irregular heart rhythm

Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) is characterized by rapid and chaotic electrical signals in the heart.

125
Q

What is the difference between unstable and stable Atrial Fibrillation?

A

Unstable: Edison before Medicine; Stable: Medicine before Edison

‘Edison before Medicine’ refers to the need for immediate intervention, while ‘Medicine before Edison’ indicates a more controlled approach.

126
Q

What is the joule range for synchronized cardioversion?

A

50-100 Joules

This range is typically used to restore normal heart rhythm in Atrial Fibrillation.

127
Q

List the medications used for stable Atrial Fibrillation.

A
  • Amiodarone
  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Digoxin
  • Beta Blockers

These medications help control heart rate and rhythm in patients with stable Afib.

128
Q

What is elective cardioversion?

A

A planned procedure to restore normal heart rhythm

Elective cardioversion is often scheduled in advance rather than performed in an emergency.

129
Q

What does EPS stand for in the context of Atrial Fibrillation treatment?

A

Electrophysiological Study

EPS is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and guide treatment options.

130
Q

What is ablation in the context of Atrial Fibrillation?

A

A procedure to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing Afib

Ablation aims to eliminate the source of electrical disturbances in the heart.

131
Q

Fill in the blank: Cardioversion pads are placed on the _______ and _______.

A

chest and back

Proper placement of pads is crucial for effective cardioversion.

132
Q

What is the purpose of a cardioversion machine?

A

To deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm

The machine is used during the cardioversion procedure.

133
Q

True or False: Cardioversion can be performed both as an emergency and an elective procedure.

A

True

Cardioversion may be indicated in urgent situations or planned as part of ongoing treatment.

134
Q

What is the typical outcome of successful cardioversion?

A

Normal Heart Rhythm

The goal of cardioversion is to revert the heart’s electrical activity to a normal pattern.

135
Q

What is the left ventricle responsible for?

A

Pumping oxygenated blood to the body

The left ventricle is one of the four chambers of the heart.

136
Q

What conduction pathway connects the left and right ventricles?

A

Left bundle branch and right bundle branch

These branches are part of the heart’s electrical conduction system.

137
Q

Define Supraventricular Tachycardia.

A

A rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles

It involves abnormal electrical activity in the atria or atrioventricular node.

138
Q

What is the first line of treatment for unstable Supraventricular Tachycardia?

A

Cardioversion

This is usually done using synchronized electric shock.

139
Q

What energy level is typically used for synchronized cardioversion in Supraventricular Tachycardia?

A

50-100 Joules

The exact amount may vary based on the patient’s condition.

140
Q

What is the initial medication used for stable Supraventricular Tachycardia?

A

Adenosine 6 mg IVP

Adenosine is administered to help restore normal heart rhythm.

141
Q

Fill in the blank: For stable Supraventricular Tachycardia, the sequence is _______ before Edison.

A

Medicine

‘Edison’ refers to electrical intervention, while ‘Medicine’ indicates pharmacological treatment.

142
Q

How much adenosine can be administered as a second dose?

A

12 mg IVP (prn)

‘prn’ means as needed, indicating it can be repeated based on the patient’s response.

143
Q

What additional procedures may be considered for Supraventricular Tachycardia if medical management fails?

A

EPS / Ablation

EPS stands for Electrophysiological Study, and ablation is a procedure to destroy abnormal electrical pathways.

144
Q

What is the first step in treating Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)?

A

Assess first!

145
Q

What should be done if a patient with Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is pulseless?

A

Defibrillate!

146
Q

What is the joule setting for a monophasic defibrillator?

A

360 joules

147
Q

What is the joule range for a biphasic defibrillator?

A

120-200 joules

148
Q

What medication is given as a bolus for Amiodarone in Ventricular Tachycardia treatment?

A

300mg bolus

149
Q

What is the additional dose of Amiodarone that can be given if needed?

A

150 mg bolus

150
Q

What is the recommended dosage of IV Epinephrine for Ventricular Tachycardia?

A

1 mg every 3-5 minutes

151
Q

True or False: Synchronized mode should be on when defibrillating for pulseless VT.

A

False

152
Q

Fill in the blank: For pulseless VT, use _______ mode off for defibrillation.

A

Synchronized

153
Q

What is the primary treatment step for ventricular fibrillation if the patient is pulseless?

A

Defibrillate!

Assess the patient’s condition before proceeding with defibrillation.

154
Q

What setting should be off during defibrillation for ventricular fibrillation?

A

Synchronized mode

Defibrillation for ventricular fibrillation requires delivering a shock without synchronization.

155
Q

What is the energy setting for a monophasic defibrillator used in ventricular fibrillation?

A

360 joules

Monophasic defibrillators deliver a single shock at this energy level.

156
Q

What is the energy range for a biphasic defibrillator in treating ventricular fibrillation?

A

120-200 joules

Biphasic defibrillators can vary their energy delivery within this range.

157
Q

What medication can be administered as a bolus for ventricular fibrillation?

A

Amiodarone 300mg bolus

A second bolus of 150 mg may be given if needed.

158
Q

How often should IV Epinephrine be administered during the treatment of ventricular fibrillation?

A

Every 3-5 minutes

Epinephrine is administered to improve coronary perfusion pressure.

159
Q

Fill in the blank: For ventricular fibrillation, the first treatment step is to assess the patient and if pulseless, to _______.

A

Defibrillate!

This is a critical intervention for restoring a normal heart rhythm.

160
Q

What is cardiac asystole?

A

A state of no cardiac electrical activity, resulting in no contractions of the myocardium and no blood flow.

161
Q

Which lead is typically monitored for cardiac asystole?

A

Lead II.

162
Q

What is the standard paper speed for ECGs used in monitoring?

A

25 mm/sec.

163
Q

What is the standard voltage calibration for ECGs?

A

10 mm/mV.

164
Q

What should be done first when a client shows signs of asystole?

A

Check the client.

165
Q

What should you do if asystole is suspected in one lead?

A

Look at another lead.

166
Q

What is the recommended treatment for cardiac asystole?

A

CPR and Epinephrine 1 mg IVP every 3-5 min.

167
Q

Fill in the blank: Epinephrine should be administered at a dose of _______ in the case of cardiac asystole.

A

1 mg IVP every 3-5 min.

Med Surg 2 (15 decks)

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