CCS Emergency Procedures & Response 3

Question 1

A patient in the ICU develops acute cardiac tamponade. Which hemodynamic triad is characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Hypotension, muffled heart sounds, elevated JVP

Answer

Beck's triad of cardiac tamponade includes hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and elevated jugular venous pressure.

Question 2

Which antiarrhythmic drug is preferred for stable wide-complex tachycardia of uncertain etiology?

Accepted Answer

Amiodarone

Answer

Amiodarone is the preferred agent for stable wide-complex tachycardia of uncertain origin because it is safe in both VT and SVT with aberrancy.

Question 3

What is the recommended energy for synchronized cardioversion of unstable atrial flutter?

Accepted Answer

50–100J biphasic

Answer

Atrial flutter often converts with low energy; 50–100J biphasic is the recommended starting dose for synchronized cardioversion.

Question 4

A patient with known Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome develops rapid atrial fibrillation. Which drug is CONTRAINDICATED?

Accepted Answer

Verapamil

Answer

Verapamil (and other AV nodal blockers) are contraindicated in WPW with AFib because they can accelerate conduction via the accessory pathway, precipitating VF.

Question 5

During a STEMI alert, door-to-balloon time should ideally be achieved within:

Accepted Answer

90 minutes

Answer

The AHA/ACC guideline target for door-to-balloon time in primary PCI for STEMI is ≤90 minutes.

(CCS) Certified Cardiovascular Specialist Practice Test

(CCS) Certified Cardiovascular Specialist Practice Test

CCS Emergency Procedures & Response 3