Paramedics Exam Cardiology & Resuscitation 4

Question 1

A patient presents with palpitations. The 12-lead ECG shows a narrow-complex tachycardia at 280 bpm with a delta wave visible during brief slowing. This is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome

Answer

A delta wave and tachycardia exceeding 250 bpm strongly suggest WPW syndrome with an accessory pathway.

Question 2

Which medication is CONTRAINDICATED in a patient with WPW syndrome and atrial fibrillation?

Accepted Answer

Adenosine

Answer

Adenosine and other AV nodal blockers are contraindicated in WPW with AF as they can accelerate conduction through the accessory pathway causing VF.

Question 3

During resuscitation of a hypothermic cardiac arrest patient, the core temperature is estimated at 28°C. What is the appropriate CPR modification?

Accepted Answer

Continue standard CPR; limit defibrillation attempts until temperature >30°C

Answer

In severe hypothermia (<30°C), the heart is often unresponsive to defibrillation; standard CPR continues while rewarming to >30°C.

Question 4

What does the 'T' wave on the ECG represent?

Accepted Answer

Ventricular repolarization

Answer

The T wave represents ventricular repolarization, the electrical recovery phase of the ventricles.

Question 5

A patient receives lidocaine for a ventricular rhythm but the infusion runs too fast. Which toxicity sign should the paramedic monitor for first?

Accepted Answer

CNS symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or altered mental status

Answer

Lidocaine toxicity first manifests as CNS symptoms including perioral numbness, dizziness, confusion, and seizures.

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Cardiology & Resuscitation 4