Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) Practice Test

Adenosine is commonly used as a first-line treatment for patients experiencing supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) due to its rapid action in terminating reentrant circuits, particularly those involving the atrioventricular (AV) node. When administered, adenosine causes a temporary block in the conduction through the AV node, which can restore normal heart rhythm. This effect occurs quickly, often within seconds, making it effective for acute control of SVT.

Other medications listed have their respective uses in different cardiac conditions. For instance, dopamine primarily acts to augment cardiac output and is utilized in cases of low blood pressure or heart failure. Lidocaine is mainly used for ventricular arrhythmias, not atrial ones, making it less suitable for SVT. Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication that is more often used for persistent ventricular tachycardia or atrial fibrillation; while it can be effective for various arrhythmias, it is not the first choice for the acute management of SVT.

Thus, the prompt action and targeted use of adenosine for SVT make it the most appropriate medication in this situation.