VF Cardiac Arrest — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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EasyCardiologyVF Cardiac ArrestRACP Adult Medicine

A 60-year-old man collapses in the hospital corridor. Monitor shows ventricular fibrillation. CPR is commenced. What is the most appropriate initial rhythm-specific intervention?

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Correct answer: C — Defibrillation (unsynchronised shock)

VF is a shockable rhythm. Immediate defibrillation (unsynchronised shock at 200 J biphasic) is the single most important intervention. Every minute delay reduces survival by 10%. ALS algorithm: shock → 2 min CPR → rhythm check → shock if still VF/pVT → adrenaline 1 mg after 3rd shock → amiodarone 300 mg after 3rd shock. CPR quality (rate 100-120, depth 5-6 cm) is critical.

Reference: ARC/ANZCOR – 2024 – ALS Guidelines