Scenario 6 - cardiac arrest

Question 1

What is one important contra-indication to defibrillation to remember?

Answer 1

Hypothermia

You must not defibrillate until the patient has been warmed up to >30 degrees min

Question 2

How often is adrenaline given in cardiac arrest resuscitation?

Answer 2

Every 3-5 mins

Question 3

What drug is given following 3 unsuccessful shock attempts in cardiac arrest?

Answer 3

Amiodarone

Question 4

Recall the 4 Hs and the 4 Ts that are reversible causes of cardiac arrest

Answer 4

Hypothermia
Hypokalaemia/hyperkalaemia
Hypovolaemia
H* increase (acidosis)

Tension pneumothorax
Tamponade
Thromboembolic
Toxins

Question 5

Name one shockable and one non-shockable rhythm in cardiac arrest

Answer 5

Shockable: ventricular fibrillation

Non-shockable: asystole