7 ECG-Guided Treatment Decisions Free Online FlashCards

What should be assessed before interpreting an ECG?

Assess responsiveness, airway and breathing, circulation, pulse, blood pressure, mental status, and signs of shock or acute heart failure.

What takes priority when a patient is unresponsive and pulseless?

Activate the emergency response and begin the cardiac-arrest protocol. Do not delay CPR or indicated defibrillation to obtain a 12-lead ECG.

What is the ECG timing goal for suspected acute coronary syndrome?

For suspected acute coronary syndrome, obtain and have the ECG interpreted promptly, with a goal of within 10 minutes of presentation.

What should follow a nondiagnostic ECG if ACS remains a concern?

Repeat the ECG, especially if symptoms persist or the patient deteriorates; a nondiagnostic initial tracing does not exclude ACS.

Which features are included in a systematic rhythm description?

Assess rate, regularity, QRS width, visible P waves, and the relationship between P waves and QRS complexes.

How do pulseless VF or pVT differ from an organized rhythm without a pulse?

Pulseless VF or pVT is treated as cardiac arrest with CPR and the defibrillation pathway. An organized rhythm without a pulse is managed as pulseless electrical activity, not as a shockable rhythm.

What does the adult algorithm direct for a tachyarrhythmia causing persistent compromise?

If a persistent tachyarrhythmia is causing compromise, the adult algorithm directs synchronized cardioversion. Obtain expert help and follow device-specific and local procedures.

What signs suggest that tachycardia with a pulse is causing compromise?

Assess for hypotension, acutely altered mental status, shock, ischemic chest discomfort, or acute heart failure; a fast rate alone does not establish instability.

What ECG features guide pathway selection for stable tachycardia?

For stable tachycardia, classify the QRS as narrow or wide and the rhythm as regular or irregular before selecting a protocol pathway. Wide-complex tachycardia warrants particular caution and expert consultation.

When is bradycardia with a pulse clinically concerning?

A low rate is important when it causes poor perfusion, such as hypotension, altered mental status, shock, ischemic discomfort, or acute heart failure.

What is the initial approach to bradycardia with poor perfusion?

Support the patient, look for reversible causes, and follow the bradycardia algorithm. If compromise persists, escalate; pacing or vasoactive support may be indicated under the applicable protocol.

What can ST depression in V1–V3 suggest?

ST depression in V1–V3 can signal posterior infarction; additional posterior leads may be appropriate under local protocols.