You are working a 55-year-old patient in cardiac arrest. When it comes time to push amiodarone for ventricular fibrillation, you note that your stock of the preferred medication has been depleted on a previous call. What medication can be safely used in place of amiodarone in this situation?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lidocaine. Lidocaine is a Class IB antiarrhythmic drug commonly used for ventricular arrhythmias. In cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation, lidocaine can be a suitable alternative to amiodarone. It works by stabilizing the cardiac cell membrane and reducing electrical activity. Epinephrine (A) is used for its vasopressor effects, not as a first-line antiarrhythmic. Cardizem (B) is a calcium channel blocker used for rate control in certain arrhythmias, not for ventricular fibrillation. Procainamide (D) is a Class IA antiarrhythmic, also used for certain arrhythmias but not typically a first-line choice for ventricular fibrillation in cardiac arrest.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because in a trauma situation involving a bicycle rider hit by a truck, airway management is crucial. Endotracheal intubation and ventilation ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation, which is essential for the patient's survival. This step takes priority over other interventions like obtaining a cervical spine x-ray (A), inserting a central venous pressure line (B), or administering crystalloid solution (C). These interventions may be necessary later in the management of the patient but ensuring a secure airway and adequate breathing is the immediate priority to prevent further deterioration and improve outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the extent of burns on the body. For infants, the head is proportionally larger compared to adults, making up a greater percentage of the total body surface area. Therefore, when applying the Rule of Nines to infants, a larger proportion of the total body surface area is assigned to the head. This is crucial for accurate assessment and treatment of burns in infants. Choice A is incorrect as the Rule of Nines is a standard method for estimating burns. Choice B is incorrect as it is not specific to the Rule of Nines application in infants. Choice D is incorrect as the legs are not proportionally larger in infants compared to adults.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: Cerebral edema increases intracranial pressure. Hypercarbia causes cerebral vasodilatation, worsening edema and increasing intracranial pressure. This can lead to further brain damage and neurological deterioration. Therefore, avoiding hypercarbia is crucial in managing cerebral edema. Summary: A: Metabolic acidosis is not directly related to hypercarbia in this context. B: Respiratory acidosis can occur with hypercarbia but is not the primary concern in cerebral edema. D: Neurogenic pulmonary edema is a potential complication of cerebral edema but is not directly caused by hypercarbia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because in a patient with altered consciousness and head trauma, CT scanning is crucial to assess for any intracranial injuries that may require immediate intervention. This helps in guiding further management and determining the severity of the head injury. Option A is incorrect as hyperoxia is actually beneficial in traumatic brain injury. Option C is premature without a proper assessment. Option D is not definitive based solely on the GCS score.