Cardiac Emergency Protocols Flashcards

What is pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) and how should DCAS paramedics manage it?

Answer: A rapid ventricular rhythm without a pulse, treated with immediate defibrillation and CPR

Pulseless VT is a rapid, organized ventricular rhythm that does not produce effective cardiac output. It is a shockable rhythm treated with immediate defibrillation followed by CPR, similar to ventricular fibrillation.

What is the DCAS protocol for managing acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the pre-hospital setting?

Answer: Aspirin 300mg, GTN (if systolic BP >90mmHg), morphine for pain, 12-lead ECG, and rapid transport to appropriate facility

DCAS ACS protocol includes aspirin 300mg chewed, sublingual GTN (if systolic BP permits), morphine for pain management, continuous cardiac monitoring with 12-lead ECG, and rapid transport to appropriate cardiac facility.

What is the significance of the 'chain of survival' concept in DCAS cardiac care?

Answer: A sequence of critical actions: early recognition, early CPR, early defibrillation, and early advanced care that maximizes cardiac arrest survival

The chain of survival represents the sequence of time-critical interventions — early recognition and activation, early CPR, early defibrillation, and early advanced care — each link of which improves cardiac arrest outcomes.

How should DCAS paramedics manage symptomatic bradycardia?

Answer: Administer atropine 500mcg IV, consider transcutaneous pacing if atropine is ineffective

DCAS protocols for symptomatic bradycardia include IV atropine 500mcg (up to 3mg total), and if ineffective, transcutaneous pacing to maintain adequate heart rate and perfusion.

What post-resuscitation care should DCAS paramedics provide after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)?

Answer: Maintain airway, target SpO2 94-98%, obtain 12-lead ECG, maintain systolic BP >90mmHg, and consider targeted temperature management

Post-ROSC care includes airway management, titrating oxygen to SpO2 94-98%, 12-lead ECG to identify STEMI, maintaining adequate blood pressure, and preparing for targeted temperature management at hospital.

What is the DCAS protocol for managing unstable tachycardia?

Answer: Perform synchronized cardioversion after sedation if the patient is hemodynamically unstable

For hemodynamically unstable tachycardia with pulse, DCAS protocols require synchronized cardioversion with appropriate sedation, as the unstable rhythm threatens organ perfusion and requires immediate electrical treatment.