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Infant supraventricular tachycardia — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric emergenciesInfant supraventricular tachycardiaRCPSC EM

A 10-day-old infant is brought in with poor feeding and pallor. Heart rate is 246/min with narrow regular QRS complexes, capillary refill is 3 seconds, and blood pressure is 74/42 mmHg. Oxygen is applied and IV access is obtained. What is the most appropriate initial management?

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Correct answer: E — Vagal manoeuvre followed by adenosine if stable enough

A narrow-complex regular tachycardia in an infant is usually SVT. If not frankly unstable, vagal manoeuvres and adenosine are appropriate; cardioversion is used for decompensation.

Reference: PALS; Canadian paediatric emergency practice