IDENTIFYING THE CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF THIRD-DEGREE AV BLOCK

Updated 4/26

In third degree AV block, the atria and ventricles,
are beating independently of each other. 

Causes of third degree AV block include:

- MI ( myocardial infarction)

- drugs such as Digoxin , which slows the heart rate

- complications of cardiac surgery

Symptoms include: 

- dizziness, decreased LOC

- chest pain, Shortness of breath

- bradycardia, hypotension and 

decrease in urinary output.

Transcutaneous pacing is a form of treatment
used to treat patients in Third degree AV block. 

This is considered to be an emergency type of 
treatment, when Atropine is ineffective.

 

  Transcutaneous pacing will help the heart to

beat and improve cardiac output until a permanent

pacemaker is inserted. Patients may need analgesia 

and sedation to keep comfortable, during this time.

Learn about : the ABG and Code Blue

Learn more about : The Circulatory System

Scenario: The patient above, was in respiratory distress
and placed  on mechanical ventilation. It is difficult
for the patient on a ventilator to describe pain. Knowing
how to assess is very important.

This topic , including quiz questions continue here:

Mechanical ventilation

Learn more about : ARDS, DVT and PE

Scenario: Nick was admitted to the hospital with a history
of lung cancer. He calls the nurse with complaints of a sudden
onset of shortness of breath and sharp chest pain.This topic
continues : Here