Free IBHRE Arrhythmias Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is the most common type of sustained arrhythmia in clinical practice?
- Atrial fibrillation (Correct answer)
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Atrial flutter
- Bradycardia
Correct answer: Atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice, affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by disorganized electrical activity in the atria, leading to an irregular and often rapid ventricular response. Its prevalence increases significantly with age and it is a major risk factor for stroke.
Question 2: Which arrhythmia is characterized by a "sawtooth" pattern on an electrocardiogram (ECG)?
- Ventricular fibrillation
- Atrial flutter (Correct answer)
- Premature ventricular contractions
- Atrioventricular block
Correct answer: Atrial flutter
Atrial flutter is an arrhythmia characterized by a rapid, regular atrial rhythm, typically between 250-350 beats per minute. This rapid atrial activity produces a distinctive 'sawtooth' pattern on the electrocardiogram (ECG) in leads II, III, and aVF, which is a hallmark diagnostic feature. This pattern results from a re-entrant circuit within the right atrium.
Question 3: What is the typical heart rate range associated with sinus tachycardia?
- 60-100 beats per minute
- 100-150 beats per minute (Correct answer)
- 150-200 beats per minute
- 40-60 beats per minute
Correct answer: 100-150 beats per minute
Sinus tachycardia is defined as a sinus rhythm with a heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute. While it can go higher, the typical range associated with common physiological responses to stress, exercise, or fever often falls within 100-150 bpm. This range helps distinguish it from more rapid supraventricular tachycardias or other pathological rhythms.
Question 4: Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment for a hemodynamically unstable patient with ventricular tachycardia?
- Oral beta-blockers
- Digoxin
- Atropine
- Synchronized cardioversion (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Synchronized cardioversion
For a hemodynamically unstable patient with ventricular tachycardia (VT), synchronized cardioversion is the most appropriate initial treatment. This procedure delivers a controlled electrical shock synchronized with the patient's QRS complex, aiming to reset the heart's electrical activity and restore a stable rhythm. This rapid intervention is crucial to prevent further hemodynamic compromise and potential cardiac arrest.
Question 5: Which arrhythmia is typically associated with a prolonged QT interval and can lead to Torsades de Pointes?
- Atrial fibrillation
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Bradycardia
- Long QT syndrome (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Long QT syndrome
Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disorder of the heart's electrical activity characterized by a prolonged QT interval on the electrocardiogram. This prolongation increases the risk of developing a life-threatening polymorphic ventricular tachycardia called Torsades de Pointes. Torsades de Pointes can lead to symptoms such as syncope, seizures, or even sudden cardiac death, making LQTS a serious condition.
Free IBHRE Arrhythmias Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the most common type of sustained arrhythmia in clinical practice?