CARDIAC ARRHYTMIAS IN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS

NAME

CATALINA JAIMES PAREDES

CODE

01200021008

INSTITUTO DEL CORAZÓN

SANATANDER, BUCARAMANGA
UNIVERSITY OF SANTANDER
UDES
SURGICAL INSTRUMENTATION
2023
 SUMMARY

The article "Cardiac Arrhythmias in Emergency Departments" deals with cardiac

arrhythmias, a health problem that can occur acutely and require immediate attention in
the emergency department. The article describes the different types of arrhythmias,
from the most common, such as atrial fibrillation, to the rarest, such as polymorphic
ventricular tachycardia. The diagnosis and treatment of these arrhythmias are also
addressed, highlighting the importance of electrocardiographic monitoring for accurate
diagnosis and the use of pharmacological therapies and invasive procedures to treat
more serious arrhythmias.

In addition, the article emphasizes the need for emergency medical personnel to be
trained to recognize and treat these arrhythmias, as they can be potentially life-
threatening if not treated properly. The article also highlights the importance of
prevention of cardiac arrhythmias, through the control of risk factors such as high blood
pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, and the use of devices such as pacemakers
and implantable defibrillators in patients at higher risk of developing arrhythmias.

In summary, the article "Cardiac Arrhythmias in Emergency Departments" is a useful

guide to understanding the different cardiac arrhythmias that may present in the
emergency department, their diagnosis and treatment, and the importance of prevention
and training of emergency medical personnel to effectively treat these conditions.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
• García, E. G., Gómez, F. J. G., Pion, M. G., & Alonso-Colmenares, M. G. (2015).
Arritmias cardiacas en Urgencias. Medicine, 11(87), 5175–5184.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.med.2015.09.010
QUESTIONS
1. Which of the following cardiac arrhythmias is the most common in the emergency
department?
a) Ventricular tachycardia
b) Atrial fibrillation
c) Sinus bradycardia

2. What is the recommended initial treatment strategy for patients with acute atrial
fibrillation in the emergency department?
a) Immediate electrical cardioversion
b) Heparin anticoagulation
c) Control of heart rate with beta-blockers or calcium antagonists

3. Which device is used for the treatment of patients with sustained ventricular
tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation in the emergency department?
a) Pacemaker
b) Implantable defibrillator
c) Electrocardiographic Holter