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What might decreased perfusion symptoms indicate in the context of tachycardia?
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Symptoms like chest pain, shock signs, or altered consciousness may indicate decreased perfusion due to unstable tachycardia.
When assessing tachycardia, what heart rate should prompt consideration of symptoms being caused by the condition?
A heart rate greater than 150 bpm should prompt consideration.
What heart rate defines tachycardia?
Tachycardia is defined as a rapid heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute.
What is the process for handling stable wide QRS complex tachycardia?
Ensure IV access, get a 12-lead ECG, consider antiarrhythmic medication, and consult cardiologist.
How might tachycardia affect cardiac output?
Faster heart rates can reduce the heart's filling time, leading to decreased preload and cardiac output.
What role does magnesium play in treating tachycardia?
Magnesium is used particularly for treating polymorphic V-Tach.
Under what circumstances should sedation be considered during synchronized cardioversion?
Sedation can be considered if the patient's blood pressure is stable and can support it during the procedure.
List common rhythms associated with unstable tachycardia.
Common rhythms include Sinus Tachycardia, AFib, AFlutter, Reentry SVT, Monomorphic V-Tach, Polymorphic V-Tach, and Wide Complex Tachycardia.
Why is synchronized cardioversion used in unstable tachycardia?
Synchronized cardioversion is used to align shocks with the QRS complex to avoid administering a shock during the T-wave, which can cause ventricular fibrillation.
What is the treatment approach for wide QRS complex tachycardia?
Treatment involves ensuring IV access, obtaining a 12-lead ECG, considering adenosine for regular monomorphic rhythms, using antiarrhythmic medications like Amiodarone, and consulting a cardiologist.
What maneuvers or interventions are considered for narrow QRS tachycardia?
Vagal maneuvers, adenosine administration, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers are considered for narrow QRS tachycardia.
What initial dose and administration method of adenosine is used for narrow and regular QRS tachycardia?
Adenosine is administered as a 6 mg rapid IV push, followed by a 12 mg dose if necessary, using a three-way stopcock for quick administration.
How can vagal maneuvers help in managing certain tachycardias?
Vagal maneuvers, such as carotid massage or blowing through a straw, can stimulate the vagus nerve and help control heart rate.
In assessing tachycardia, what key questions should guide management?
Key questions include: Are symptoms present? Is the patient stable or unstable? Is the QRS complex narrow or wide? Is the rhythm regular or irregular? Is the QRS monomorphic or polymorphic?
What is the general role of beta blockers in tachycardia treatment?
Beta blockers can help manage the rate of heart rhythms in narrow QRS complex tachycardias by slowing the heart rate.
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