ACLS ACLS Cardiac Rhythms and ECG Interpretation

Question 1

Which cardiac rhythm is characterized by no discernible P waves, a coarse irregular baseline, and no organized QRS complexes?

Accepted Answer

Ventricular fibrillation (VF)

Answer

Ventricular tachycardia (VT)

Answer

Asystole

Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Question 2

In ACLS, what is the treatment for pulseless electrical activity (PEA)?

Accepted Answer

CPR + epinephrine + identify and treat reversible causes (H's and T's)

Answer

Immediate defibrillation

Answer

Synchronized cardioversion

Answer

Atropine 1 mg IV

Question 3

A patient has a wide-complex tachycardia at 180 bpm with no pulse. What is the correct ACLS intervention?

Accepted Answer

Unsynchronized defibrillation (shock)

Answer

Synchronized cardioversion

Answer

Amiodarone 300 mg IV

Answer

Adenosine 6 mg IV rapid push

Question 4

What does a 'tombstone' ST elevation pattern on ECG indicate in the context of ACLS?

Accepted Answer

ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)

Answer

Normal sinus rhythm variant

Answer

Pericarditis

Answer

Benign early repolarization

Question 5

Which rhythm on ECG shows regular narrow QRS complexes at 150 bpm with a 'sawtooth' baseline pattern?

Accepted Answer

Atrial flutter with 2:1 block

Answer

Sinus tachycardia

Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Answer

Junctional tachycardia

Question 6

What is the significance of a prolonged QT interval in ACLS management?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of torsades de pointes (polymorphic VT)

Answer

Indicates complete heart block

Answer

Is a normal finding requiring no treatment

Answer

Indicates hyperkalemia