PEA describes any organized rhythm that does not result in a pulse.

PEA describes any organized rhythm that does not result in a pulse.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It is an organized rhythm with a pulse
• D. It is a rhythm with no electrical activity

Answer: (A)

PEA means there is organized electrical activity on the monitor but no palpable pulse. This statement is true because PEA is defined by the presence of an organized rhythm on ECG paired with the absence of a pulse and effective mechanical activity. If there is a pulse, it’s not PEA; if there is no electrical activity, that describes asystole; and rhythms that are not organized (like VF/VT) are not PEA even if no pulse. So the description given matches what PEA is.

PEA means there is organized electrical activity on the monitor but no palpable pulse. This statement is true because PEA is defined by the presence of an organized rhythm on ECG paired with the absence of a pulse and effective mechanical activity. If there is a pulse, it’s not PEA; if there is no electrical activity, that describes asystole; and rhythms that are not organized (like VF/VT) are not PEA even if no pulse. So the description given matches what PEA is.