Relias Dysrhythmia Basic Test A Answers & Study
Guide 2026 (Q&A) | ECG Interpretation & Rhythm
Identification for Nurses | PDF
Summary
The Relias Dysrhythmia Basic Test A is a high-stakes competency exam used by
healthcare facilities to validate a clinician's ability to accurately read ECG strips,
calculate cardiac intervals, and implement life-saving interventions. This
comprehensive guide covers the essential American Heart Association (AHA)
ACLS protocols required to pass the 35-question assessment. Candidates must
demonstrate mastery in identifying lethal rhythms such as Ventricular Fibrillation (V-
Fib), Ventricular Tachycardia (V-Tach), and Asystole, as well as complex AV Heart
Blocks.
Critical Test Components & Knowledge Domains
1. ECG Measurement Mastery: Accurate calculation of the PR Interval (0.12–0.20s) and QRS
Complex (<0.12s) is the foundation of the exam. Understanding that a prolonged PRI indicates
a First Degree AV Block is a frequent test item.
2. Lethal Rhythm Recognition: Immediate identification of "shockable" vs. "non-shockable"
rhythms. Defibrillation is the gold standard for Pulseless V-Tach and V-Fib, while CPR and
Epinephrine are mandatory for PEA and Asystole.
3. Advanced Heart Blocks: Distinguishing between Second Degree Type I (Wenckebach)—
characterized by progressive PRI lengthening—and Second Degree Type II (Mobitz II)—which
features a constant PRI with dropped beats.
4. Pharmacology for Dysrhythmias: Mastery of first-line medications including Atropine for
symptomatic bradycardia, Adenosine for SVT, and Amiodarone for refractory ventricular
arrhythmias.
Guide 2026 (Q&A) | ECG Interpretation & Rhythm
Identification for Nurses | PDF
Summary
The Relias Dysrhythmia Basic Test A is a high-stakes competency exam used by
healthcare facilities to validate a clinician's ability to accurately read ECG strips,
calculate cardiac intervals, and implement life-saving interventions. This
comprehensive guide covers the essential American Heart Association (AHA)
ACLS protocols required to pass the 35-question assessment. Candidates must
demonstrate mastery in identifying lethal rhythms such as Ventricular Fibrillation (V-
Fib), Ventricular Tachycardia (V-Tach), and Asystole, as well as complex AV Heart
Blocks.
Critical Test Components & Knowledge Domains
1. ECG Measurement Mastery: Accurate calculation of the PR Interval (0.12–0.20s) and QRS
Complex (<0.12s) is the foundation of the exam. Understanding that a prolonged PRI indicates
a First Degree AV Block is a frequent test item.
2. Lethal Rhythm Recognition: Immediate identification of "shockable" vs. "non-shockable"
rhythms. Defibrillation is the gold standard for Pulseless V-Tach and V-Fib, while CPR and
Epinephrine are mandatory for PEA and Asystole.
3. Advanced Heart Blocks: Distinguishing between Second Degree Type I (Wenckebach)—
characterized by progressive PRI lengthening—and Second Degree Type II (Mobitz II)—which
features a constant PRI with dropped beats.
4. Pharmacology for Dysrhythmias: Mastery of first-line medications including Atropine for
symptomatic bradycardia, Adenosine for SVT, and Amiodarone for refractory ventricular
arrhythmias.
