Rapid heart rate in recovery room

Rapid heart rate in recovery room

Learning Objectives:

1. List signs of cardiovascular instability.

2. Describe treatment for unstable ventricular tachycardia with pulse present.

Signs of Cardiovascular Instability:

CNS - confusion, lethargy.

Cardiac - chest pain, severe hypotension.

Pulmonary - pulmonary edema, shortness of breath.

Treatment for Unstable V Tach:

1. Treatment of sustained ventricular tachycardia depends on the hemodynamic status.

2. Treat pulseless ventricular tachycardia the same as ventricular fibrillation.

3. For unstable ventricular tachycardia, prepare for immediate synchronized cardioversion. Start at 100 Joules and increase to 200, 300, 360 Joules.

4. If there is time you should consider obtaining consultation with a cardiologist.