Pediatric Arrhythmia Recognition Flashcards
6 cards from real PALS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Pediatric Arrhythmia Recognition flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes second-degree AV block Mobitz type II?
Answer: Consistent PR interval with sudden dropped QRS complexes
Mobitz type II is characterized by a fixed PR interval with sudden non-conducted P waves (dropped QRS), indicating infranodal block.
A child with SVT who is stable is given adenosine 0.1 mg/kg IV without effect. What is the next step?
Answer: Double the dose to 0.2 mg/kg IV (max 12 mg)
If the first dose of adenosine is ineffective, PALS recommends doubling the dose to 0.2 mg/kg IV (maximum 12 mg).
Which finding on a rhythm strip is most consistent with ventricular tachycardia (VT)?
Answer: Wide QRS complexes >0.09 seconds at a rate of 150–200 bpm with AV dissociation
VT is characterized by wide QRS complexes, rapid rate, and AV dissociation where P waves bear no relationship to QRS complexes.
Atropine is used in PALS for bradycardia primarily in which situation?
Answer: Bradycardia caused by increased vagal tone or AV block
Atropine is most effective for bradycardia caused by excessive vagal tone or AV nodal block, but not for hypoxia-induced bradycardia.
What is the correct energy dose for synchronized cardioversion in a child with unstable SVT?
Answer: 0.5–1 J/kg, may increase to 2 J/kg
Synchronized cardioversion for unstable SVT or VT with a pulse starts at 0.5–1 J/kg and can be increased to 2 J/kg if needed.
Which of the following rhythms requires immediate defibrillation rather than synchronized cardioversion?
Answer: Pulseless ventricular fibrillation
VF is a disorganized rhythm with no defined QRS, requiring asynchronous defibrillation because the device cannot synchronize to a QRS complex.