ECC Pharmacology & Medication Management Flashcards
6 cards from real ECC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 ECC Pharmacology & Medication Management flashcards as text
Which calcium channel blocker is first-line for rate control in stable atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response?
Answer: Verapamil or diltiazem
Diltiazem or verapamil (IV) are preferred calcium channel blockers for rate control in stable atrial fibrillation or flutter.
What is the primary concern with administering calcium gluconate before defibrillation in a hyperkalemic cardiac arrest?
Answer: It stabilizes the cardiac membrane to allow safer shock delivery
Calcium gluconate (or chloride) stabilizes the myocardial membrane potential in hyperkalemia, reducing the risk of arrhythmia and making defibrillation more effective.
In suspected cocaine-induced cardiac arrest, which drug class is contraindicated?
Answer: Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are contraindicated in cocaine toxicity because they leave alpha-adrenergic effects unopposed, worsening coronary spasm and hypertension.
The correct route of administration for vasopressin during cardiac arrest is:
Answer: IV or IO
Vasopressin may be given IV or IO at 40 units to replace either the first or second dose of epinephrine, though current guidelines no longer preferentially recommend it.
Which medication should be immediately available when administering IV adenosine for SVT?
Answer: Defibrillator with resuscitation equipment
Because adenosine can briefly cause asystole or severe bradycardia, a defibrillator and full resuscitation equipment must be at bedside before administration.
Fibrinolytic therapy during cardiac arrest is considered when which reversible cause is strongly suspected?
Answer: Massive pulmonary embolism
Fibrinolytics may be considered during cardiac arrest if massive pulmonary embolism is the suspected cause, as clot dissolution can restore circulation.