Question

your patient is complaining of chest pain, diaphoretic and light-headed. bp 82/54, rr 22, afebrile. identify the rhythm and the most appropriate immediate intervention for this patient.

ventricular fibrillation: get a 12 lead ecg
supraventricular tachycardia (svt): call the provider and wait for orders
ventricular tachycardia: immediate synchronized cardioversion
ventricular tachycardia: anticipate defibrillation
supraventricular tachycardia (svt): administer amiodarone

Explanation:

Analyze the ECG strip

The ECG shows a regular, wide-complex monomorphic tachycardia with a rate exceeding 150 bpm and no discernible P waves. This is characteristic of Ventricular Tachycardia (VT).

Assess patient stability

The patient is symptomatic and unstable, presenting with chest pain, diaphoresis, light-headedness, and hypotension (BP 82/54 mmHg).

Determine the immediate intervention

For an unstable patient with a pulse presenting with monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia, the standard Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) protocol dictates immediate synchronized cardioversion.

Answer:

• Ventricular Fibrillation: Get a 12 Lead ECG
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Call the provider and wait for orders
• Ventricular Tachycardia: Immediate Synchronized Cardioversion (Correct answer)
• Ventricular Tachycardia: Anticipate Defibrillation
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Administer Amiodarone