Paramedics Exam Cardiology and Resuscitation 2

Question 1

A patient presents with a wide-complex tachycardia at 180 bpm. The patient is hemodynamically unstable with a BP of 70/40 mmHg. What is the most appropriate immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Synchronized cardioversion starting at 100 J

Answer

Unstable wide-complex tachycardia requires immediate synchronized cardioversion; pharmacologic therapy is reserved for stable patients.

Question 2

During CPR, which finding on capnography most reliably indicates return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)?

Accepted Answer

ETCO2 suddenly rises above 40 mmHg

Answer

A sudden abrupt rise in ETCO2 above 40 mmHg during CPR is a reliable indicator of ROSC due to restored cardiac output.

Question 3

A 58-year-old male presents with crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm. His 12-lead ECG shows ST elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. Which coronary artery is most likely occluded?

Accepted Answer

Right coronary artery

Answer

ST elevation in leads II, III, and aVF indicates an inferior STEMI, most commonly caused by occlusion of the right coronary artery.

Question 4

Which of the following is the preferred initial energy setting for defibrillation of ventricular fibrillation with a biphasic defibrillator?

Accepted Answer

120-200 J as recommended by the manufacturer

Answer

Biphasic defibrillators should be used at the manufacturer-recommended dose (120-200 J); if unknown, use the maximum available.

Question 5

A patient in cardiac arrest has a PEA rhythm. Which of the following H's and T's is the most likely reversible cause if the patient has a history of recent dialysis?

Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

Dialysis patients are at high risk for hyperkalemia, which can cause PEA and is a reversible cause of cardiac arrest.

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Cardiology and Resuscitation 2