In terms of prioritization, what is the correct order of lethal arrhythmias for NCLEX?

In the context of prioritization in lethal arrhythmias, the order begins with the most life-threatening conditions that require immediate intervention. A-systole is considered a critical emergency because it represents a complete cessation of electrical activity in the heart, leading to no cardiac output and requiring immediate resuscitation efforts.

Ventricular fibrillation (V-fib) follows closely as it is also a life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles, which prevents effective heart contraction and blood flow. This condition is also an immediate emergency that necessitates prompt defibrillation.

Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) is next in the prioritization. It can be stable or unstable, but when it is unstable or prolonged, it can deteriorate into V-fib or result in decreased cardiac output. Hence, while it needs urgent attention, it typically comes after addressing A-systole and V-fib.

Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) and atrial flutter are generally less immediately life-threatening compared to the aforementioned arrhythmias, especially in a stable patient. They can be significant in terms of stroke risk or lead to deterioration under certain circumstances, but they do not require the same level of immediate intervention