Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) Practice Test

What could be the consequence of delivering a shock to a patient on the T Wave?

1. It may cause asystole

2. It may lead to V-fib

3. It guarantees defibrillation

4. It has no effect

The correct answer is: It may lead to V-fib

Delivering a shock to a patient during the T wave can lead to the potential for ventricular fibrillation (V-fib). The T wave represents the process of ventricular repolarization in the cardiac cycle. If a shock is delivered at this phase, it can disrupt the normal electrical activity of the heart, potentially throwing the heart into an erratic and chaotic rhythm like V-fib. This is especially critical because the heart is most susceptible to developing dangerous arrhythmias during this time. Understanding the timing of electrical shocks in relation to the cardiac cycle is essential in managing arrhythmias safely. Administering a shock during the T wave can significantly increase the risk of inducing V-fib, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Consequently, it’s crucial for healthcare providers to ensure that defibrillation is performed at appropriate times within the cardiac cycle to maximize the chances of effective treatment and minimize risks.