Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the appropriate treatment for a patient showing sinus bradycardia with symptoms and a blood pressure of 70/50?

1. Administer epinephrine

2. Perform cardioversion

3. Give atropine 0.5 mg

4. Initiate chest compressions

The correct answer is: Give atropine 0.5 mg

Atropine is the appropriate treatment in cases of symptomatic sinus bradycardia, particularly when the patient is experiencing symptoms such as hypotension, which is indicated by a blood pressure of 70/50. Sinus bradycardia refers to a slower than normal heart rate, typically less than 60 beats per minute. When this condition presents with symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, or in this case, hypotension, it can lead to reduced cardiac output and necessitates intervention. Atropine works by blocking the effects of the vagus nerve on the heart, thereby increasing the heart rate by inhibiting parasympathetic nervous system activity. The standard dose for atropine in treating symptomatic bradycardia is 0.5 mg IV, which can be repeated every 3 to 5 minutes until a maximum cumulative dose of 3 mg is reached. This approach effectively addresses the patient's low blood pressure and symptoms associated with the bradycardia, improving heart rate and consequently enhancing perfusion to vital organs. Other treatments such as epinephrine or initiating chest compressions may be considered in cases of more severe or unresponsive bradycardia, but atropine is the first-line therapy for symptomatic bradycardia.