ACLS review: SVT part 1

Management of SVT

Mnemonic for Treating SVT

Primary Survey

Recognize symptoms of instability

Evaluate rhythm- EKG

Vagal Maneuvers

Adenosine

Direct cardioversion

Expert consultation

Primary Survey

·         Airway- supplemental oxygen

·         Breathing

·         Circulation

·         Check VS

·         Assess pulse

·         Attach defibrillator/monitor

·         12 lead EKG

·         IV access

Recognize Symptom of Instability?

·         Evaluate the patient: symptomatic or unstable

·         Identify potential reversible causes of the tachycardia

Note:

Many experts suggest that when a heart rate is <150 beats per minute, it is unlikely that symptoms of instability are caused primarily by the tachycardia unless there is impaired ventricular function.

Symptomatic Tachycardia

·         Symptomatic implies that an arrhythmia is causing symptoms, such as palpitations, lightheadedness, or dyspnea, but the patient is stable and not in imminent danger.

·         In such cases more time is available to decide on the most appropriate intervention

Unstable Tachycardia

·         Refers to a condition in which vital organ function is acutely impaired or cardiac arrest is ongoing or imminent.

·         When an arrhythmia causes a patient to be unstable, immediate intervention is indicated

Symptoms of Instability

·         Chest pain

·         Syncope

·         Shortness of breath

·         Cold and clammy skin

·         Decreased level of consciousness

·         Hypotension

·         Pulmonary congestion

Reviewed 2/28/16