Question

Hemodynamically unstable patient with SVT

• A. IV IBUTILIDE
• B. IV DILTIAZEM
• C. CARDIOVERSION
• D. IV beta-blockers

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In a hemodynamically unstable patient with Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), immediate intervention is crucial to restore stability and prevent deterioration. The most effective method in such scenarios is:

1. Electrical Cardioversion: This is the process of delivering a synchronized electrical shock to the heart to reset its rhythm. It is the preferred treatment in unstable SVT cases because it can rapidly restore sinus rhythm and stabilize the patient's hemodynamics.

Other options, such as pharmacological interventions like IV Ibutilide, IV Diltiazem, or IV beta-blockers, are typically used in stable patients where there is more time to gradually manage the heart rate and rhythm. However, in unstable conditions, these medications may not act quickly enough to prevent further compromise of cardiac output. Therefore, they are not the primary choices in acute situations.

Option	Use in Unstable SVT
IV IBUTILIDE	Not recommended
IV DILTIAZEM	Not recommended
CARDIOVERSION	Recommended
IV beta-blockers	Not recommended