CEP Cardiac Care & Emergency Pharmacology 2

Question 1

A patient in ventricular fibrillation does not respond to the first defibrillation attempt. What is the next immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Resume CPR for 2 minutes before the next shock

Answer

After a failed defibrillation, CPR should be resumed immediately for 2 minutes before reassessing rhythm and delivering another shock.

Question 2

Which electrolyte abnormality is most commonly associated with Torsades de Pointes?

Accepted Answer

Hypomagnesemia

Answer

Hypomagnesemia is the most common electrolyte disturbance causing Torsades de Pointes by prolonging the QT interval.

Question 3

A patient presents with a heart rate of 180 bpm with a narrow QRS and no P waves visible. The patient is hemodynamically stable. What rhythm is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)

Answer

SVT presents with a regular narrow-complex tachycardia around 150-220 bpm where P waves are often hidden in the T wave.

Question 4

A 60-year-old male takes metoprolol daily and presents with a HR of 34 bpm and hypotension. Which medication is contraindicated?

Accepted Answer

Atropine

Answer

Atropine is unlikely to be effective in beta-blocker overdose bradycardia because the block occurs downstream of the muscarinic receptor; glucagon or calcium are preferred.

Question 5

During a cardiac arrest, when should the first dose of amiodarone be given?

Accepted Answer

After the third defibrillation attempt

Answer

Amiodarone 300 mg IV is administered after the third defibrillation attempt in refractory VF/pVT per AHA guidelines.

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

CEP Cardiac Care & Emergency Pharmacology 2