Asystole

In this lesson, we are going to define asystole and identify some causes and risk factors for developing this potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmia.  We will look at signs and symptoms that nurses will need to carefully monitor for and review asystole’s appearance on a cardiac rhythm strip. We will also review priority nursing interventions and medical treatments along with potential complications the condition can cause.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Define asystole
2. Recognize causes and risk factors for developing asystole
3. Identify asystole on a rhythm strip
4. Describe signs and symptoms of asystole
5. Prioritize nursing interventions for treating clients with asystole
6. State potential complications of untreated asystole