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Supraventricular Tachycardia — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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EasyCardiologySupraventricular TachycardiaRACP Adult Medicine

A 55-year-old man presents with regular narrow-complex tachycardia at 180 bpm. BP is 130/80 mmHg. Vagal manoeuvres are unsuccessful. Which is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: E — IV adenosine

This is a haemodynamically stable regular narrow-complex tachycardia, most likely AVNRT or AVRT. After failed vagal manoeuvres, IV adenosine 6 mg rapid bolus is the first-line pharmacological treatment. It works by transiently blocking AV nodal conduction. If unsuccessful, 12 mg can be repeated.

Reference: eTG Cardiovascular – 2024 – SVT Management