ACLS Bradycardia 2

Question 1

A patient presents with a heart rate of 38 bpm, hypotension, and altered mental status. Which drug is the FIRST-LINE treatment for symptomatic bradycardia?

Accepted Answer

Atropine

Answer

Atropine 1 mg IV is the first-line drug for symptomatic bradycardia in ACLS guidelines.

Question 2

What is the maximum cumulative dose of atropine recommended in ACLS for bradycardia?

Accepted Answer

3 mg

Answer

The maximum cumulative dose of atropine is 3 mg (given as repeated 1 mg doses every 3–5 minutes).

Question 3

A patient with symptomatic bradycardia fails to respond to atropine. Which of the following is the NEXT best step?

Accepted Answer

Begin transcutaneous pacing

Answer

Transcutaneous pacing is the recommended intervention when atropine fails to improve symptomatic bradycardia.

Question 4

Which rhythm is most likely to be UNRESPONSIVE to atropine therapy?

Accepted Answer

Third-degree AV block with wide QRS escape

Answer

Complete heart block with a wide-complex (ventricular) escape rhythm is below the AV node and does not respond to atropine.

Question 5

During transcutaneous pacing for bradycardia, what confirms electrical capture?

Accepted Answer

Widened QRS complexes after each pacing spike with a pulse

Answer

Electrical capture is confirmed by a pacing spike followed by a wide QRS, and mechanical capture is confirmed by a palpable pulse.

ACLS Practice Test

ACLS Practice Test

ACLS Bradycardia 2