PEA is a non-shockable rhythm and requires CPR, epinephrine, and treatment of reversible causes (H’s & T’s).

The initial pediatric defibrillation dose is 2 J/kg, increasing to 4 J/kg if needed.

If SVT is unstable (poor perfusion, hypotension, altered mental status), synchronized cardioversion (0.5-1 J/kg) is required.

QT prolongation predisposes to Torsades de Pointes, a form of polymorphic VT that may require IV magnesium sulfate.

Hypoxia leads to bradycardia due to inadequate oxygenation, making oxygenation and ventilation the first priorities in treatment.

Peaked T waves are one of the first ECG signs of hyperkalemia, which can progress to widened QRS and cardiac arrest if untreated.

Epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg IV/IO) is the first-line drug for bradycardia unless it is caused by increased vagal tone or AV block, in which case atropine is used.

PEA and asystole are the most common arrest rhythms in children due to respiratory failure or shock, while VF is rare.

Atrial fibrillation is rare in children unless they have an underlying cardiac condition (e.g., congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy).

While wide QRS tachycardia suggests VT, SVT with aberrant conduction can also present with a wide QRS.

Adenosine (0.1 mg/kg IV push, max 6 mg first dose) is the preferred initial treatment for stable SVT.

Severe hyperkalemia widening the QRS complex can evolve into a sine wave pattern, leading to asystole.

Mobitz II can progress to complete heart block, so it often requires pacing if symptomatic.

Epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg IV/IO) should be given every 3-5 minutes during cardiac arrest to improve coronary and cerebral perfusion.

In infants, SVT often exceeds 220 bpm, while in older children, it is typically >180 bpm.