In which of the following situations should you avoid administering a synchronized shock?

• A. During ventricular fibrillation
• B. During supraventricular tachycardia
• C. During atrial fibrillation
• D. During atrial flutter

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of synchronized shock: Synchronized shock, or cardioversion, is used to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of certain types of arrhythmias by delivering a controlled electric shock synchronized with the R wave of the QRS complex.
2. Identify the types of arrhythmias: The arrhythmias mentioned are ventricular fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and atrial flutter. Each has different characteristics and treatment protocols.
3. Recognize the characteristics of ventricular fibrillation: Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening condition where the heart quivers instead of pumping due to disorganized electrical activity. It requires immediate defibrillation, not synchronized cardioversion.
4. Differentiate between defibrillation and synchronized cardioversion: Defibrillation is used in life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, where there is no coordinated heart rhythm to synchronize with.
5. Conclude the appropriate action: Since ventricular fibrillation requires immediate defibrillation and not synchronized cardioversion, avoid administering a synchronized shock in this situation.