Atrial Flutter. Note the sawtooth baseline, no definable P wave.
Treatment: Correct any metabolic derangement or electrolyte imbalance then use
Antidsyrhythmics. Usually Amiodarone, Digoxin, beta blocker (Metoprolol, Toprol) or calcium
channel blocker (Diltiazem, Cardizem) for rate control and control of the aberrant atrial
impulse. If severely elevated and symptomatic may need synchronized cardioversion.
Remember—all atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation patients must be anticoagulated to prevent
throwing a clot when they go back into regular rhythm. This means Heparin, Coumadin and/or
antiplatelet like Aspirin and Clopidogrel (Plavix).
2.
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Rate >200
Treatment: Attempt Valsalva maneuver usually once. Then Adenosine 6mg IV slow push.
Adenosine WILL CAUSE ASYSTOLE briefly. Half life is 10 seconds. If no response after first dose,
may repeat with Adenosine 12mg IV slow push. Again, asystole. Monitor closely.
3.
Atrial Fibrillation (afib). No P wave, irregular rate.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller HIGHSCORE. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $7.99. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.