NCLEX-PN

interventions include CPR and ACLS protocols, cardioversion, placement of an internal pacemaker, and antiarrhythmic medications.

●​ Ventricular Fibrillation Ventricular fibrillation is characterized by erratic, uncoordinated ventricular and/or atrial contractions, resulting from multiple electrical impulses originating from various ventricular sites. There is no discernable rate, rhythm, P wave, PR interval, or QRS complex. Cardiac output is absent, and death is highly likely without immediate treatment. Risk factors include untreated ventricular tachycardia, drug overdoses, myocardial infarction, severe trauma, electrolyte imbalances, and severe hypothermia. Clients with ventricular fibrillation lose consciousness, have an absent pulse, and require immediate measures such as CPR, defibrillation, and other life-saving interventions.

●​ Asystole (Cardiac Standstill) Asystole is characterized by the absence of any cardiac electrical activity. There is no rate, rhythm, P wave, PR interval, or QRS complex. It can occur suddenly due to conditions such as myocardial infarction, pacemaker failure, pulmonary embolus, or cardiac tamponade. Immediate basic life support (BLS) and advanced life support (ACLS) measures are necessary. Interventions may include intravenous adrenaline, sodium bicarbonate, atropine, and 100% oxygen.

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