Ventricular fibrillation (V fib) Flashcards
What is Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)?
A life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by disorganized electrical activity in the ventricles, leading to cessation of effective cardiac output.
What is the immediate management for a patient in VF?
Initiate high-quality CPR immediately and prepare for defibrillation.
In the context of VF, what does the CAB sequence stand for?
Compressions, Airway, Breathing.
What is the significance of minimizing interruptions during CPR?
Minimizing interruptions ensures consistent perfusion to vital organs and increases the likelihood of successful resuscitation.
What is the role of advanced airway management in VF cardiac arrest?
To secure the airway, provide adequate ventilation, and deliver high-concentration oxygen.
What is the recommended defibrillation strategy for VF?
Perform immediate defibrillation with a biphasic defibrillator at 120-200 Joules or a monophasic defibrillator at 360 Joules.
Why is rapid defibrillation crucial in the management of VF?
Rapid defibrillation is the most effective treatment to restore a perfusing rhythm and improve survival outcomes.
What is the difference between defibrillation and synchronized cardioversion?
Defibrillation: Unsynchronized shock used in pulseless arrhythmias like VF and pulseless VT. Synchronized Cardioversion: Synchronized shock used in organized arrhythmias with a pulse, such as unstable atrial fibrillation or stable VT with a pulse.
How often should epinephrine be administered during a VF cardiac arrest?
Administer 1 mg of epinephrine IV every 3-5 minutes during CPR.
When is amiodarone indicated in the management of VF?
Amiodarone is indicated after the third defibrillation attempt if VF/pulseless VT persists.
What is the initial dose of amiodarone for refractory VF?
Administer 300 mg IV/IO push.
What is the second dose of amiodarone for refractory VF?
Administer 150 mg IV/IO push.
What are the reversible causes of cardiac arrest, often remembered as the 5 Hs and 5 Ts?
5 Hs: Hypovolemia, Hypoxia, Hydrogen ion (acidosis), Hypo-/Hyperkalemia, Hypothermia.
5 Ts: Toxins, Tamponade (cardiac), Tension pneumothorax, Thrombosis (pulmonary), Thrombosis (coronary).
How frequently should rhythm checks be performed during CPR in a VF arrest?
Every 2 minutes, coinciding with the potential need for defibrillation.
What is the management approach for asystole or pulseless electrical activity (PEA)?
Initiate CPR, administer epinephrine every 3-5 minutes, perform rhythm checks, and treat reversible causes.
What post-resuscitation care is essential after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in a VF patient?
Optimize ventilation and oxygenation, maintain hemodynamic stability, and address underlying causes to prevent recurrence.
