3rd degree heart block

1. What is a 3rd degree heart block

1.1. Third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, also referred to as third-degree heart block or complete heart block, is a disorder of the cardiac conduction system where there is no conduction through the atrioventricular node (AVN). Therefore, complete dissociation of the atrial and ventricular activity exists.[1] The ventricular escape mechanism can occur anywhere from the AVN to the bundle-branch Purkinje system.

1.2. Can be caused by beta blocker or calcium channel blocker overdose

2. Treatment

2.1. Atropine can be considered although it will more than likely not work.

2.2. Pacing will be the best option depending on the stability of the patient, consider sedation if vitals will tolerate it

2.3. glucagon can be considered if beta blocker or calcium channel blocker is suspected.

3. Signs/symptoms

3.1. Signs

3.1.1. when there are more P waves than QRS complexes and there is no relationship between them (ie, no conduction).

3.1.2. Brady Rythm

3.2. Symptoms

3.2.1. Weakness

3.2.2. Syncope

3.2.3. Chest pain

3.2.4. Hx of Cardiac Disease and Taking beta-blockers

3.2.5. Hypotension