Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam 2025 – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The primary purpose of administering amiodarone during cardiac arrest scenarios is to stabilize the heart rhythm in cases of ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT). Amiodarone is an effective antiarrhythmic medication that helps to restore normal heart rhythm by acting on various cardiac ion channels, specifically prolonging the action potential and refractory period, which is crucial during these life-threatening arrhythmias.

In the context of cardiac arrest, effectively managing these arrhythmias can increase the likelihood of successful defibrillation and improve overall survival rates. Amiodarone is recognized for its role in resuscitation protocols as it assists in the management of shock-refractory VF and pulseless VT, making it an essential medication in the Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support guidelines.

Other options, such as rehydrating the patient, increasing blood pressure, or treating anxiety, do not directly relate to the critical role amiodarone plays in the acute management of cardiac arrest and the specific arrhythmias encountered during these emergencies.