The Effectiveness of the Modified Valsalva Maneuver in Terminating Episodes of Supraventricular Tachycardia

Abstract

Vagal maneuvers have been used in the termination of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) episodes. SVT is a common arrhythmia characterized by rapid heart rates which affect the upper chambers of the heart. These maneuvers act as a mechanism to slow the heart rate without medication or invasive procedures. SVT is prevalent across the lifespan, however, it is commonly seen in young women. This Evidence-Based Practice Brief aims to understand the efficacy of modified Valsalva maneuver compared to other interventions such as standard Valsalva maneuver, Carotid Sinus massage, and the head down deep breathing method in adult patients over the age of 18. The modified Valsalva maneuver has been suggested to be up to 2.5 times more effective than the traditionally used standard Valsalva maneuver (Abdulhamid et al., 2021). Thorough analysis of three primary research articles was done and there was evidence of higher efficacy in modified Valsalva maneuvers compared to the other maneuvers, however, due to inconsistent inclusion criteria and inadequate sample sizes in the studies, further research is needed in order to fully answer the PICOT question. The findings of this Brief can help to inform nurses on whether implementing the modified Valsalva maneuver should be first line treatment over other vagal maneuvers.