Section 5: Pharmacology I: Agents for Arrhythmias Cardiac Monitoring

Cardiac Monitoring Arrhythmias, serious electrical abnormalities of the heart, cause most sudden coronary deaths. Establish ECG monitoring as soon as possible for all patients who collapse suddenly or who have symptoms of coronary ischemia or infarction. To avoid delay, use the “quick-look paddles” feature available on most conventional defibrillators. For patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or severe ischemia, the greatest risk for serious arrhythmias occurs during the first hour after the start of symptoms. Healthcare professionals must start cardiac monitoring as soon as possible during this critical period.