Pediatric Dysrhythmia Recognition Flashcards

What is the correct initial dose of adenosine for treating SVT in a child?

Answer: 0.1 mg/kg IV (max 6 mg)

The initial adenosine dose for pediatric SVT is 0.1 mg/kg (maximum 6 mg) given as a rapid IV bolus immediately followed by a normal saline flush.

Which of the following is a shockable cardiac arrest rhythm?

Answer: Ventricular fibrillation (VF)

Ventricular fibrillation (and pulseless VT) are shockable rhythms; asystole and PEA are non-shockable rhythms treated with CPR and epinephrine.

A child has wide-complex tachycardia at 180 bpm with hypotension and altered mental status. What is the priority treatment?

Answer: Perform synchronized cardioversion

Hemodynamically unstable tachycardia requires immediate synchronized cardioversion regardless of QRS width, as waiting for drugs risks further deterioration.

What is the recommended initial energy dose for synchronized cardioversion in a child with unstable SVT?

Answer: 0.5-1 J/kg

The initial synchronized cardioversion dose for children is 0.5-1 J/kg, escalating to 2 J/kg if the first attempt is unsuccessful.

What defines pulseless electrical activity (PEA)?

Answer: Organized electrical activity on ECG without a palpable pulse

PEA is defined as organized (or semi-organized) electrical activity visible on the ECG with no palpable pulse or effective cardiac output.

Which antiarrhythmic drug is recommended for VF or pulseless VT refractory to defibrillation in children?

Answer: Amiodarone

Amiodarone (or lidocaine as an alternative) is used for shock-refractory VF or pulseless VT in pediatric cardiac arrest after CPR and epinephrine.

What does asystole look like on an ECG?

Answer: A flat or near-flat line indicating no electrical activity

Asystole appears as a flat or near-flat line on the ECG, indicating the absence of any organized electrical activity in the heart.