During cardiac arrest in a monitored ward bed the rhythm is ventricular fibrillation, and three shocks have been delivered. Which drugs are given at this point in the Resuscitation Council UK adult algorithm?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Adrenaline 1 mg and amiodarone 300 mg intravenously, with compressions continuing
- Step 1: The rhythm is shockable and is still VF after three shocks, so the algorithm moves on to drug therapy. Step 2. After the third shock give adrenaline 1 mg and amiodarone 300 mg IV, then adrenaline every 3 to 5 minutes (alternate cycles) while compressions continue. Answer: Adrenaline 1 mg and amiodarone 300 mg intravenously, with compressions continuing. Why not the others: Atropine is no longer part of the cardiac arrest algorithm. Amiodarone is not delayed until five shocks, since the first dose is given with the adrenaline after the third. Adrenaline is also given in shockable rhythms, not only in asystole or PEA.
Practise more Acute and emergency care.
Free questions with an explanation for every one, and full timed UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (MSRA-style single best answer) mock tests.
More Acute and emergency care questions
- A man develops facial swelling, wheeze and hypotension minutes after a wasp sting. What is the most appropriate immediate drug treatment in…
- What are the recommended rate and depth of chest compressions for an adult in cardiac arrest, according to Resuscitation Council UK?
- A patient in pulseless electrical activity after a road collision has distended neck veins, absent breath sounds on the left and a deviated…
- Which combination best describes the components of the Sepsis Six bundle that should be completed within the first hour?
- A woman with type 1 diabetes presents with ketoacidosis. Her admission potassium is 2.8 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate approach to ins…
- A man with renal failure has peaked T waves and a widened QRS complex with a potassium of 7.4 mmol/L. What is the first treatment?