Heart Rhythms

Question 1

Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS), Sinus Arrest

Answer 1

• SA node fires, fires, fires –> asystole
• *EKG normal parameters
• HOLTER monitor because when they go to the hospital rhythm may be normal
• *Atropine; or Pacemaker**

Question 2

Atrial Dysrhythmias

Answer 2

Origen: Atria
Significance: Loss of CO
Etiology: Respiratory & Cardiac Problems
Types: -Premature Atrial Contractions (PACs)
-Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) or Atrial Tach
-Atrial Flutter (A. Flutter)
-Atrial Fibrillation (A. Fib)

Question 3

Torsades de Pointes

Answer 3

It’s a prolonged QT interval in the EKG that can become V. Tach.
It can be caused as a consequence of decreased Mg and K+ levels in the blood or as a side effect of:
-Quinidine
-Amiodarone
-Procainamide
-Tikosyn (dofetillide)

Give MAGNESIUM