Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

What dysrhythmia often follows sustained ventricular tachycardia?

1. Elevated ST segments

2. Atrial fibrillation

3. Heart block

4. Ventricular fibrillation

The correct answer is: Ventricular fibrillation

Sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles that can lead to inadequate cardiac output and potentially life-threatening complications. One of the serious consequences that can occur after a period of sustained VT is the development of ventricular fibrillation (VF). Ventricular fibrillation is characterized by chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles, leading to a lack of effective pumping and resulting in the cessation of blood flow. This is particularly concerning following sustained VT because the ventricles have already been subjected to abnormal electrical activity which can lead to a further deterioration in rhythm. The systolic function of the heart is compromised during sustained VT, which can result in myocardial ischemia, electrolyte imbalances, or structural heart changes, all of which can further predispose the heart to the erratic rhythms seen in VF. Therefore, understanding this correlation is critical, as immediate intervention is crucial to restore normal rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac arrest associated with VF. Other dysrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or heart block, do not typically follow sustained ventricular tachycardia in the same direct manner. Elevated ST segments could be indicative of other cardiac conditions but are not a direct result of sustained VT. Thus,