Ventricular Fibrillation

Question 1

What is ventricular fibrillation?

Answer 1

• irregular, broad-complex tachycardia

- ventricles contract out of sync

Question 2

What are the causes of VF?

Answer 2

1. Ischaemic Heart Disease (MI)
2. Long QT / Brugada syndrome
3. HOCM
4. Substance abuse (cocaine, meth)
5. Electrolyte imbalance (↓ K+, ↑K+)
6. Hypoxia

Question 3

What are the symptoms and signs of VF?

Answer 3

1. Chest Pain
2. Palpitations
3. SOB
4. Nausea / Dizziness
5. Unconscious

Question 4

What is the investigations of VF?

Answer 4

1. ECG

2. ABG

Question 5

What are the ECG changes in VF?

Answer 5

no discernable waves of any kind - random (but shockable)

Question 6

What is the management of VF?

Answer 6

• Follow algorithm
  1. Give oxygen
  2. IV 1mg adrenaline every 3-5 mins
  3. IV 300mg amiodarone after 3 shocks over 3 mins
  4. Treat reversible causes