A patient admitted to the emergency room is experiencing severe shortness of breath and chest pain. The ECG shows atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response of 160 bpm, leading to hypotension and altered mental status. What is the most appropriate immediate treatment for this patient?
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✓ Correct answer: B. Synchronized cardioversionSynchronized cardioversion is typically used for atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response, especially when the patient is hemodynamically unstable (e.g., showing signs of hypotension or altered mental status). This procedure delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm.
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