How should adenosine be administered for SVT?

How should adenosine be administered for SVT?

• A. Rapidly over 1-2 seconds with a rapid saline flush
• B. Slow infusion over several minutes
• C. Oral tablet
• D. IV drip infusion

Answer: (A)

Adenosine works by briefly blocking AV nodal conduction, and its effect is incredibly short-lived. To terminate SVT, it must reach the heart almost instantly, so it’s given as a rapid intravenous bolus with a quick saline flush to push the drug into central circulation within seconds. That immediate surge creates a transient AV block that often stops the reentrant rhythm and restores normal rhythm. If given slowly or as a drip, the drug wouldn’t act quickly enough to interrupt the tachycardia and might not have the desired effect at all. An oral tablet won’t work for acute SVT because absorption is slow and unpredictable, and a slow infusion wouldn’t produce the rapid peak concentration needed. While monitoring closely, be prepared for a brief pause in rhythm or AV block, and have resuscitation equipment ready.

Adenosine works by briefly blocking AV nodal conduction, and its effect is incredibly short-lived. To terminate SVT, it must reach the heart almost instantly, so it’s given as a rapid intravenous bolus with a quick saline flush to push the drug into central circulation within seconds. That immediate surge creates a transient AV block that often stops the reentrant rhythm and restores normal rhythm. If given slowly or as a drip, the drug wouldn’t act quickly enough to interrupt the tachycardia and might not have the desired effect at all. An oral tablet won’t work for acute SVT because absorption is slow and unpredictable, and a slow infusion wouldn’t produce the rapid peak concentration needed. While monitoring closely, be prepared for a brief pause in rhythm or AV block, and have resuscitation equipment ready.