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ACLS Cardiac Rhythms and ECG Interpretation Flashcards

6 cards from real ACLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 ACLS Cardiac Rhythms and ECG Interpretation flashcards as text

  1. What is the first energy dose for defibrillation of VF/pVT with a biphasic defibrillator in ACLS?

    Answer: 120–200 J (manufacturer-recommended dose)

    For biphasic defibrillators, the initial energy dose should follow the manufacturer's recommendation (typically 120–200 J); use 360 J if unknown.

  2. A patient in sinus bradycardia (HR 35 bpm) is hypotensive and unresponsive to atropine. What is the next ACLS intervention?

    Answer: Transcutaneous pacing (TCP)

    Transcutaneous pacing is the next step for symptomatic bradycardia unresponsive to atropine, providing immediate rate support while preparing for transvenous pacing.

  3. Which ECG finding in a patient presenting with syncope suggests hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)?

    Answer: Left ventricular hypertrophy with deep narrow Q waves in lateral leads

    HCM often shows LVH criteria on ECG with prominent, narrow Q waves in lateral leads (I, aVL, V5–V6) due to septal hypertrophy.

  4. In ACLS, what rhythm requires synchronized cardioversion rather than unsynchronized defibrillation?

    Answer: Unstable atrial fibrillation with a pulse

    Synchronized cardioversion is used for unstable tachyarrhythmias with a pulse (AF, SVT, stable VT with pulse) to deliver the shock on the R wave and avoid inducing VF.

  5. Which lead combination is BEST for continuous cardiac monitoring during ACLS to detect both ischemia and arrhythmias?

    Answer: Lead II and V1

    Lead II is optimal for P wave visualization and arrhythmia detection, while V1 helps identify bundle branch blocks, so together they provide comprehensive monitoring.

  6. What ECG pattern is associated with Brugada syndrome that may present as sudden cardiac arrest?

    Answer: Coved ST elevation (≥2 mm) with RBBB pattern in V1–V2

    Brugada syndrome is characterized by a coved-type ST elevation ≥2 mm with an RBBB-like pattern in V1–V2, associated with risk of sudden VF and cardiac death.