HealthStream Practice Test

Adenosine is considered the most effective medication for treating paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) due to its rapid action in interrupting abnormal electrical pathways in the heart. When administered intravenously, adenosine causes a brief and controlled heart block at the atrioventricular (AV) node, effectively terminating most episodes of PSVT. Its quick onset of action, usually within seconds, makes it particularly suitable for acute management in emergency settings.

In contrast, while amiodarone, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers can be used for various types of tachycardias, they generally act more slowly and are not specifically targeted for immediate termination of PSVT. Amiodarone, for instance, is often utilized for more complex arrhythmias and has a longer duration of action, which may be less effective in acute situations. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, while they can help manage heart rate and rhythm, are often employed for ongoing control rather than for rapid termination of PSVT episodes. Therefore, adenosine stands out as the first-line treatment for this particular condition.

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