If ventilation and chest compressions do not improve bradycardia, what is the next step?

Study for the Sacramento State Medic Module 6 Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your assessment!

Multiple Choice

If ventilation and chest compressions do not improve bradycardia, what is the next step?

Explanation:
During CPR, if bradycardia persists despite proper ventilation and chest compressions, giving epinephrine is the next step. Epinephrine increases perfusion during CPR by causing peripheral vasoconstriction, which raises diastolic aortic pressure and improves coronary and cerebral perfusion. It also provides beta-adrenergic effects to help increase heart rate and contractility when appropriate. Other options don’t address the perfusion deficit as effectively during ongoing resuscitation—cooling is a post-arrest measure, and simply increasing oxygen beyond standard practice or continuing chest compressions without addressing perfusion isn’t the best next move. Administer epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg of 1:10,000 IV/IO) every 3–5 minutes.

During CPR, if bradycardia persists despite proper ventilation and chest compressions, giving epinephrine is the next step. Epinephrine increases perfusion during CPR by causing peripheral vasoconstriction, which raises diastolic aortic pressure and improves coronary and cerebral perfusion. It also provides beta-adrenergic effects to help increase heart rate and contractility when appropriate. Other options don’t address the perfusion deficit as effectively during ongoing resuscitation—cooling is a post-arrest measure, and simply increasing oxygen beyond standard practice or continuing chest compressions without addressing perfusion isn’t the best next move. Administer epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg of 1:10,000 IV/IO) every 3–5 minutes.

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