Antiarrhythmic Medications and Clinical Interventions Flashcards

The Vaughan Williams Class IV antiarrhythmics include:

Answer: Calcium channel blockers

Class IV antiarrhythmics are calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil) that slow conduction through the AV node.

Which intervention is the definitive treatment for ventricular fibrillation?

Answer: Unsynchronized defibrillation (CPR + shock)

Unsynchronized defibrillation combined with CPR is the only definitive treatment for ventricular fibrillation, as per ACLS protocols.

A CRAT notices a patient in sustained stable monomorphic VT. After confirming the patient is stable, the next appropriate intervention is:

Answer: Synchronized cardioversion or antiarrhythmic therapy per protocol

Stable monomorphic VT is treated with synchronized cardioversion or antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone or procainamide) per ACLS protocol.

Procainamide's primary antiarrhythmic mechanism is:

Answer: Blocking fast sodium channels to slow conduction

Procainamide is a Class IA sodium channel blocker that slows intraventricular conduction and prolongs the refractory period.

Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely to cause refractory ventricular arrhythmias resistant to standard treatment?

Answer: Hypomagnesemia

Hypomagnesemia is a common cause of refractory ventricular arrhythmias, and IV magnesium replacement is essential before antiarrhythmic therapy can be effective.

When documenting a rhythm requiring intervention, a CRAT should record:

Answer: The rhythm identification, time of onset, patient symptoms, interventions, and patient response

Complete documentation includes rhythm identification, onset time, patient symptoms, all interventions performed, and the patient's response to treatment.