AMLS Cardiac Emergencies 3

Question 1

Which electrolyte abnormality can cause a prolonged QT interval and increase the risk of Torsades de Pointes?

Accepted Answer

Hypomagnesemia

Answer

Hypomagnesemia prolongs the QT interval and is a major risk factor for Torsades de Pointes ventricular tachycardia.

Question 2

A patient in acute heart failure presents with severe dyspnea, pink frothy sputum, and SpO2 of 82%. What is the priority airway intervention?

Accepted Answer

CPAP or BiPAP non-invasive ventilation

Answer

CPAP/BiPAP is the priority intervention for acute pulmonary edema as it improves oxygenation and reduces the work of breathing without intubation.

Question 3

What is the significance of a right-sided ECG lead V4R showing ST elevation in the context of inferior STEMI?

Accepted Answer

Indicates concurrent right ventricular infarction

Answer

ST elevation in V4R indicates right ventricular infarction, which complicates inferior STEMI and changes management.

Question 4

In a patient with suspected right ventricular infarction, which medication should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Nitroglycerin

Answer

Nitroglycerin causes venodilation and reduces preload, which is dangerous in RV infarction where preload dependence is critical.

Question 5

A patient presents with a regular narrow-complex tachycardia at 160 bpm. Vagal maneuvers fail. What is the next pharmacologic step?

Accepted Answer

Adenosine 6 mg rapid IV push

Answer

Adenosine is the first-line drug for stable SVT after failed vagal maneuvers due to its rapid AV node blocking effect.

AMLS - Advanced Medical Life Support Practice Test