CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which intravenous agent is most likely to favorably respond to a patient diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

1. Atropine

2. Epinephrine

3. Adenosine

4. Albuterol

The correct answer is: Adenosine

Adenosine is the intravenous agent most likely to favorably respond to a patient diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This medication works specifically by slowing down the heart rate and interrupting reentrant pathways in the atrioventricular (AV) node. When adenosine is administered, it temporarily blocks conduction through the AV node, allowing the heart rhythm to revert to normal sinus rhythm in cases of SVT. In the context of treating SVT, adenosine is often effective due to its rapid onset and short half-life, making it suitable for acute management of this arrhythmia. It is typically used when other measures, such as vagal maneuvers, do not successfully convert the rhythm. Given the pivotal role of the AV node in SVT, adenosine's targeted action makes it a first-line agent for cardioversion in this scenario. Other agents mentioned do not serve the same purpose in the context of SVT. While atropine can increase heart rate by blocking parasympathetic activity, it is more indicated in bradycardic situations. Epinephrine, a sympathomimetic agent, may increase heart rate and force of contraction but is not specific in its action for