What treatment option is indicated for unstable SVT?

In the case of unstable supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), immediate treatment is crucial due to the potential for hemodynamic instability, which can lead to serious complications. The most effective and appropriate treatment in this scenario is cardioversion.

Cardioversion involves delivering a synchronized shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. This is particularly important when the patient is unstable, which is defined by symptoms such as hypotension, altered mental status, signs of shock, or chest pain. By using cardioversion, the goal is to rapidly terminate the SVT and stabilize the patient’s hemodynamic status.

Adenosine administration is often used for stable SVT, but it is typically not administered in cases of instability, as it does not provide immediate effect and may not adequately control the situation. Defibrillation is reserved for more severe arrhythmias like pulseless ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, not for SVT. Vagal maneuvers can be effective for stable SVT, but they are not sufficient for a patient who exhibits signs of instability.

In summary, cardioversion is the appropriate choice for treating unstable SVT due to its ability to quickly restore a stable cardiac rhythm and