What is NOT a goal of the secondary assessment in suspected arrhythmias?

The secondary assessment in cases of suspected arrhythmias primarily focuses on gathering information that can guide immediate treatment and improve patient outcomes. Among its goals is the identification of potentially reversible causes for the arrhythmia. This includes searching for factors such as electrolyte imbalances, medication effects, and other medical conditions that could be implicated in the arrhythmia.

Another key goal is to determine the severity of the patient's condition. This involves assessing how the arrhythmia is affecting the patient's hemodynamic status and overall stability, which is crucial for deciding the urgency and type of interventions.

Identifying the underlying rhythm is also essential, as proper treatment depends heavily on the accurate diagnosis of the specific type of arrhythmia present. It allows healthcare providers to tailor their approach appropriately and address the issue directly.

While understanding a patient’s past medical history can provide valuable context, it is not a primary goal of the secondary assessment specific to suspected arrhythmias. The focus during this phase is more on real-time assessment rather than historical data, making this an area that, while useful, does not directly align with the immediate objectives of managing an arrhythmic crisis.