So, how can we differentiate VT from these other rhythms?
- Any patient with a history of ischaemic or structural heart disease should be assumed to have VT
- A prior history of MI = 98% chance the rhythm is VT
- History of structural heart disease = 90% chance the rhythm is VT [7]
This may save attempts at detailed ECG analysis.
Learning bite
- In differentiating between VT and SVT with aberrant conduction – if the patient is >50 and/or has a history of structural or ischaemic heart disease, assume the rhythm is VT
- If there is any doubt whatsoever – treat a regular broad complex tachychardia as VT