Tachyarrhythmia Recognition & Management

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • Assess hemodynamic status:
    • Is pt hypotensive?
    • Is there evidence of tissue hypoperfusion?
    • “When in doubt, knock it out”- severe hemodynamic instability caused by tachycardia requires prompt cardioversion (DCC). Note: ST and MAT does not respond to DCC.
  • Evaluate for CHF.
  • Evaluate for active ischemia.
  • If any of the above are yes, then the pt is unstable & requires immediate treatment per ACLS

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Last updated: May 5, 2010