ACLS Pulseless 4

Question 1

You are resuscitating a patient in VF. The team has delivered 3 shocks and 2 doses of epinephrine. Which antiarrhythmic should be considered next?

Accepted Answer

Amiodarone 300 mg IV

Answer

Amiodarone 300 mg IV is the first antiarrhythmic recommended after epinephrine for shock-refractory VF/pulseless VT.

Question 2

Which of the following is a 'T' in the Hs and Ts of reversible causes of cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Tension pneumothorax

Answer

The 5 Ts are Tension pneumothorax, Tamponade (cardiac), Toxins, Thrombosis (pulmonary and coronary), and Trauma.

Question 3

A patient in cardiac arrest is suspected to have hyperkalemia as the cause. Which drug is most appropriate to stabilize the myocardium?

Accepted Answer

Calcium chloride 500–1000 mg IV

Answer

Calcium chloride (or calcium gluconate) directly antagonizes the cardiac membrane effects of hyperkalemia and is the first-line treatment.

Question 4

What chest compression depth is recommended for adults during CPR?

Accepted Answer

At least 2 inches (5 cm), not exceeding 2.4 inches (6 cm)

Answer

Adult CPR guidelines recommend a compression depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) but not more than 2.4 inches (6 cm).

Question 5

A patient is resuscitated and ROSC is achieved. The 12-lead ECG shows ST elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. What is the next priority?

Accepted Answer

Emergent coronary angiography/PCI

Answer

STEMI identified post-ROSC warrants emergent coronary angiography and PCI regardless of the patient's neurological status.

ACLS Practice Test