A 28-year-old male presents to the Emergency Department with sudden onset of palpitations for the past 45 minutes. He admits to using cocaine at a party approximately 2 hours prior to symptom onset. He denies any previous cardiac history but acknowledges recreational cocaine use on weekends.
Observations:
Heart rate: 190 beats per minute, regular
Respiratory rate: 22 breaths per minute
Blood pressure: 158/92 mmHg
Temperature: 37.9°C
Oxygen saturation: 97% on room air
GCS: 15/15
Agitated and combative
An ECG is taken:
He has received 6mg of adenosine followed by 12mg of adenosine, both without successful cardioversion.
What is the most appropriate next step in management?
Administer 18mg of adenosine
Administer intravenous lorazepam 2mg
Administer intravenous metoprolol 5mg
Attempt synchronised DC cardioversion
Administer intravenous verapamil 5mg
