Symptomatic bradycardia (RCUK adult algorithm)
A source-linked educational visual of adult symptomatic bradycardia assessment, atropine, pacing risk and escalation from RCUK guidance.
Important safety note
This visual algorithm is an educational representation of published UK clinical guidance and is not a substitute for clinical judgement, local protocols, senior/specialist advice, or the original guideline. Verify current guidance before clinical use.
Scope and source
- Scope
- Adults with symptomatic or concerning bradyarrhythmia in UK emergency and resuscitation settings.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- Resuscitation Council UK adult bradycardia algorithm
- Guidance last updated
- 2025-04-30
- Clinical reference reviewed
- 2026-09-08
- Review due
- 2027-03-08
Interactive clinical algorithm
This source-backed visual algorithm is available in the interactive page experience. Open the original guidance and the node notes before clinical use.
How to read this visual
- Read across the columns for the phases of the pathway; the swimlanes are who acts — Resuscitation team, Rhythm and pacing, Expert cardiology input.
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Assess life-threatening features before moving through the drug and pacing branch.
- Open notes for asystole-risk features and the listed alternative therapies.
Clinical notes
- Treat reversible causes in parallel, including medicines, toxins and metabolic derangement.
- Use local pacing, infusion and specialist-cardiology pathways.
Sources
- RCUK adult bradycardia algorithm (Resuscitation Council UK; 2025-04-30)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify current RCUK guidance before clinical use.