CV Meds: Antidysrhythmic Agents Flashcards
(23 cards)
Antidysrhythmic agents are classified according to..
Effects on electrical conduction of the heart
Class I:
Na+ channel blockers
Class II:
Beta blockers
Class III:
K+ channel blockers
Class IV:
Ca+ channel blockers
You can remember the antidysrhythmic classes if you remember this:
Na-Beta-Ka-Ca
NA BETA KA CA
Na: (Na+) sodium channel blockers
Beta: beta blockers
Ka: (K+) potassium channel blockers
Ca: (Ca) calcium channel blockers
Three most common antidysrhythmic agents:
- Adenosine
- Amiodarone
- Atropine
How does adenosine work?
Slows conduction time thru AV node, interrupts AV node pathways to restore normal sinus rhythm (NSR)
How does amiodarone work?
Prolongs repolarization, relaxes smooth muscles and decreases vascular resistance
How does atropine work?
Increase heart rate by contracting the muscarine-like actions of acetylcholine and other choline esters
What is the use of adenosine?
Converts SVT -> sinus rhythm
What are the side effects of adenosine?
- flushing
- nausea
- bronchospasm
- prolonged asystole
How do you give adenosine thru the IV?
Rapid IV push (1-2 sec) and then flush immediately with at least 20mL of NaCl
What are the uses of amiodarone?
- V-fib
- unstable ventricular tachycardia
What are the side effects of amiodarone?
- bradycardia
- cardiogenic shock
- pulmonary disorders
Amiodarone is incompatible with what other med?
Heparin
Amiodarone may be given in maintenance doses thru what means?
Orally (PO)
What should you monitor after giving amiodarone?
Respiratory complications
Toilet Paper My Assets
T = tricuspid
P= pulmonic
M = mitral
A = aortic
Atropine is used for what?
Bradycardia
Known exposure to chemical nerve agent
To decrease secretions
Atropine has no contraindications when used for what?
Life-threatening emergencies
What are the side effects of atropine?
- dry mouth
- blurred vision
- photophobia
- urinary retention
- constipation
