Rhythm treatment reference
Choose treatment from the rhythm, pulse and patient condition.
Treatment choices
| Finding | Next reference |
|---|---|
Fast organized rhythm with a pulse | Synchronized cardioversion and the individual rhythm cards explain which patterns respond. |
VF, pulseless VT or torsades | Defibrillation with SYNC off, CPR and correction of reversible causes. |
PEA or asystole | ROSC and reversible causes. These are nonshockable arrest patterns. |
A brief changing trace | Monitor transients and artifacts, including the torsades entry and post-shock display. |
Medication response
Adenosine requires rapid systemic delivery for SVT conversion. Amiodarone, lidocaine and magnesium have different rhythm targets and timing. Read the matching card before judging whether the medication failed.
For delayed IV responses, check ACM Extended: Circulation > Medications > Require saline flush after push and examine the line. Increasing the amount drawn does not correct a closed or leaking line.
Scenario options
ACM: Circulation > Cardiac Arrest > Rhythm Deterioration Multiplier adjusts deterioration probability. ACM Extended: Systems > Hardcore > [HARDCORE] Cardiac Rhythms adds ROSC restrictions. The full cardiac rhythm guide lists default entry times, conversion responses and available tuning options.