Step 1: The defining feature is hemodynamic instability (hypotension, altered sensorium, ischemic chest pain or signs of shock) in a patient with SVT.
Step 2: Per ACLS, any tachyarrhythmia with serious signs of instability is treated with immediate synchronised electrical cardioversion, regardless of the specific rhythm.
Step 3: Drugs such as diltiazem, beta-blockers and ibutilide act too slowly and can further drop the blood pressure in an unstable patient, so they are reserved for the stable patient.
Conclusion: The unstable SVT patient needs immediate synchronised cardioversion.
Ref: ACLS Guidelines.