Pulseless ventricular tachycardia

Definition

Pulseless ventricular tachycardia is a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia characterized by rapid heartbeats originating from the ventricles without effective blood circulation. It requires immediate medical intervention.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pulseless ventricular tachycardia is treated as a form of cardiac arrest and requires immediate defibrillation.
2. Administration of antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone or lidocaine can be essential in managing pulseless VT after initial defibrillation attempts.
3. Epinephrine may be administered to increase coronary perfusion pressure during CPR for pulseless VT.
4. The condition is often caused by heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or myocardial infarction.
5. Recognition of pulseless VT involves identifying rapid, wide-complex QRS on an ECG with no palpable pulse.

Review Questions

• What are the primary treatment steps for pulseless ventricular tachycardia?
• Which medications are commonly used in the management of pulseless ventricular tachycardia?
• What are common causes that can lead to the development of pulseless ventricular tachycardia?

Related terms

Ventricular Fibrillation:

A severe form of arrhythmia where the ventricles quiver ineffectively, leading to cardiac arrest.

Defibrillation: A medical procedure used to restore a normal heartbeat by sending an electric pulse or shock to the heart.

Cardiac Arrest: A sudden loss of heart function, leading to loss of breathing and consciousness.