A conscious patient has a regular narrow-complex tachycardia at 180 beats per minute, a blood pressure of 118/74 mmHg and no chest pain. Which intervention is appropriate initially?
Correct answer: B. Perform a vagal manoeuvre
- A. Begin chest compressions
- B. Perform a vagal manoeuvre
- C. Deliver unsynchronized defibrillation
- D. Give intravenous calcium chloride
Explanation
A stable regular narrow-complex tachycardia may respond to a vagal manoeuvre, which temporarily increases vagal influence on the atrioventricular node. Defibrillation and chest compressions are not indicated while the patient is conscious with a pulse and stable circulation.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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