SHM's Clinical Quick Talks-Approach to Heart Blocks

Pdf Summary

Heart blocks refer to disruptions in the electrical conduction between the heart's atria and ventricles, categorized as first, second, and third degree blocks. <br /><br />First-degree blocks involve a prolonged PR interval on ECG, usually benign and asymptomatic, managed by observation. <br /><br />Second-degree blocks include Mobitz Type 1 (Wenckebach) where the PR interval lengthens before a dropped beat, often asymptomatic but may require atropine or pacing if symptomatic. Mobitz Type II involves abnormal infra-nodal conduction. It may progress to third-degree AV block and requires pacing. <br /><br />Third-degree blocks indicate a complete failure of atrial impulses to reach the ventricles, potentially leading to symptomatic bradycardia requiring prompt treatment with atropine and pacing if unstable. Permanent pacing is generally needed in this condition. <br /><br />Overall, the management of heart blocks depends on the severity of symptoms and the specific type of block present, with a focus on addressing reversible causes and providing appropriate interventions to stabilize patients and prevent complications.

Asset Subtitle

Fatima Qaisrani, Nicole Terrigno

Keywords

Heart blocks

Electrical conduction disruptions

First-degree blocks

Second-degree blocks

Third-degree blocks

Mobitz Type 1

Mobitz Type II

Bradycardia

Atropine

Pacing