Final answer:
When atropine fails to treat bradycardia, alternatives include medications like beta blockers or antiarrhythmic agents, pacemaker insertion, surgery, and possibly supplemental oxygen based on the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
If atropine is ineffective in treating bradycardia according to the "bradycardia with a pulse" algorithm, there are several other treatment options that can be considered. These alternatives include the administration of other medications, the use of medical procedures such as inserting a pacemaker, or in more severe cases, surgery. Medications might include beta blockers or antiarrhythmic agents like procainamide, which are aimed at restoring a normal heart rhythm. However, these medications can sometimes have significant side effects, particularly when used over a long period. A pacemaker is a common treatment for cases of slow heart rates. It delivers electrical impulses to the heart to ensure it contracts and pumps blood effectively. Pacemakers can either provide continuous stimulation or be programmed to work on demand. Supplemental oxygen might also be administered, depending on the underlying cause of bradycardia.