Principles of Critical Care > Part III. Cardiovascular Disorders > Chapter 24. Cardiac Arrhythmias, Pacing, Cardioversion, and Defibrillation in the Critical Care Setting Anne M. Gillis

Key Points

"Cardiac arrhythmias are common in the critical care setting. Many arrhythmias detected are benign, may occur in healthy individuals, and require no investigation or treatment (e.g., sinus tachycardia, sinus bradycardia, Mobitz type I second-degree atrioventricular [AV] block, or premature atrial and ventricular beats). Correct diagnosis and understanding of arrhythmia mechanisms and knowledge of antiarrhythmic drug pharmacology and nonpharmacologic therapies of arrhythmias are crucial for successful arrhythmia management. This chapter focuses on the mechanisms, investigation, and management of the most common, clinically significant arrhythmias encountered...."