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A 5-year-old child in supraventricular tachycardia has adequate pulses with the rhythm. Supplemental oxygen is in place and vital signs are stable except for the elevated heart rate. The most appropriate next intervention for this child is:

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Final answer:

For a stable 5-year-old child with supraventricular tachycardia and adequate pulses, the best next intervention is to attempt vagal maneuvers and, if necessary, administer antiarrhythmic medications. More invasive procedures are reserved for cases that do not respond to initial treatments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is Medicine, specifically pediatric cardiology, regarding a 5-year-old child with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This condition, which is an abnormally fast heart rate originating above the heart's ventricles, can be serious in children. While a normal resting heart rate (HR) can be bpm in children without it being considered tachycardia, a sustained elevated HR due to SVT can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, or fainting. Treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause but often includes medications, and in some cases, procedures like ablation or surgery. For a child with adequate pulses, normal vital signs except for the elevated heart rate, and with supplemental oxygen already provided, the most appropriate next intervention would focus on trying to slow the heart rate.

The answer to what would be the most appropriate next intervention requires clinical knowledge and consideration of the child's current state. For a child in stable condition with SVT and adequate pulses, an initial non-invasive intervention such as vagal maneuvers may be attempted. If these are ineffective, the next step might involve administering antiarrhythmic medications. In emergent cases with hemodynamic instability, synchronized cardioversion might be required.

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