DCAS Cardiac Emergency Protocols 2

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

A slow heart rhythm treated with atropine

Answer

A normal rhythm variation requiring observation

Answer

A rhythm only found in children

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Only provide oxygen and transport

Answer

Wait for hospital treatment

Answer

Only apply cardiac monitoring

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

A chain used to secure patients during transport

Answer

A hospital discharge checklist

Answer

A paramedic training sequence

Question 4

How should DCAS paramedics manage symptomatic bradycardia?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

No treatment is needed

Answer

Immediately defibrillate

Answer

Only provide oxygen therapy

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Stop all monitoring

Answer

Simply transport to nearest hospital

Answer

Discontinue IV access

Question 6

What is the DCAS protocol for managing unstable tachycardia?

Accepted Answer

Perform synchronized cardioversion after sedation if the patient is hemodynamically unstable

Answer

Administer atropine

Answer

Give aspirin only

Answer

Wait for natural conversion