ACLS Tachycardia and Bradycardia Algorithms 5

Question 1

A patient has sinus bradycardia at 48 bpm but is awake, alert, with BP 118/76 and no symptoms. What is the correct ACLS management?

Accepted Answer

Observation — no treatment required

Answer

Asymptomatic bradycardia without hemodynamic compromise does not require intervention in the ACLS algorithm.

Question 2

Which of the following is a Class III indication (harmful) for adenosine in tachycardia management?

Accepted Answer

Irregular wide-complex tachycardia consistent with pre-excited AF

Answer

Adenosine is potentially harmful in irregular wide-complex tachycardia (pre-excited AF/WPW) because it can precipitate ventricular fibrillation.

Question 3

What synchronized cardioversion energy is recommended for unstable monomorphic VT in ACLS?

Accepted Answer

100 J

Answer

Unstable monomorphic VT is cardioverted starting at 100 J with biphasic energy per ACLS guidelines.

Question 4

A patient with narrow-complex tachycardia receives adenosine 6 mg without effect. What is the next step?

Accepted Answer

Administer adenosine 12 mg IV rapid push

Answer

If the initial 6 mg dose of adenosine fails, the next dose is 12 mg IV given as a rapid push, which may be repeated once.

Question 5

Which of the following statements about transcutaneous pacing (TCP) is correct?

Accepted Answer

TCP should be used while awaiting transvenous pacing for unstable bradycardia

Answer

TCP is a temporizing measure for unstable bradycardia while definitive transvenous pacing is arranged.

ACLS Practice Test