GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CARDAIC ARRHYTHMIAS

Question 1

Causes of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Answer 1

Electrolyte disturbances that alter the action potential

Decreases in oxygen delivered to the cells

Structural damage changing the conduction pathway through the heart

Acidosis or accumulation of waste products altering the
action potential

Drugs that alter the action potential or cardiac conduction

Question 2

Types of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Answer 2

Tachycardia (faster-than-normal heart rate)

Bradycardia (slower-than-normal heart rate)

Premature atrial contractions (PACs) or premature 
ventricular contractions (PVCs)

Atrial flutter

Atrial fibrillation or ventricular fibrillation

Alterations in conduction through the muscle (heart blocks and bundle branch blocks)

Question 3

CLASS I

Answer 3

Block the sodium channels in the cell membrane during an action potential (phase 0)

Question 4

CLASS II

Answer 4

Block beta-receptors, causing a depression of phase 4 of the action potential

Question 5

CLASS III

Answer 5

Block potassium channels, prolong phase 3 of the action potential

Question 6

CLASS IV

Answer 6

Block calcium channels in the cell membrane (phase 2)

Question 7

ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN (CHILDREN)

Answer 7

Monitor closely- more likely to experience ADE

Digoxin is approved in children

Dosages should be calculated by age and weight

Ablation procedures have been successful

Question 8

ACROSS THE LIFESPAN (ADULT)

Answer 8

Used frequently during emergencies

Monitor frequently

Avoid use in pregnancy and lactation

Question 9

ACROSS THE LIFESPAN (OLDER ADULT)

Answer 9

Frequently prescribed

More likely to experience ADE

Start at a lower dose