Peri-arrest tachyarrhythmia (RCUK adult algorithm)
A source-linked educational visual of adult peri-arrest tachyarrhythmia instability, cardioversion and rhythm-directed management 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 peri-arrest tachyarrhythmia in UK emergency and resuscitation settings.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- Resuscitation Council UK adult tachyarrhythmia algorithm
- Guidance last updated
- 2026-03-01
- 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 defibrillation, Expert cardiology input.
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Identify life-threatening features before attempting rhythm classification.
- Open notes for cardioversion, drug options and pre-excitation/polymorphic-VT cautions.
Clinical notes
- Treat sinus tachycardia by treating its cause, not by applying this antiarrhythmic pathway.
- Use senior/cardiology support and local drug/sedation protocols.
Sources
- RCUK adult tachyarrhythmia algorithm (Resuscitation Council UK; 2026-03-01)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify current RCUK guidance before clinical use.