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Introduction
Advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) describes the treatment of cardiac arrest. ACLS may only be provided by trained experts, as it includes advanced ECG diagnostics, procedural skills, and use of medications. It builds upon basic life support, or CPR, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Both these can be used by trained members of the public. ACLS Survey ACLS begins with BLS, and an assessment of a patient's airway, breathing, and circulation. At each step, it is important to act before continuing. Shocks are provided according to montior and vital signs, not in in response to an AED's evaluation. A secondary survey should be quickly done to identify possible causes of cardiac arrest (e.g., a heart attack, drug overdose, or trauma). Throughout ACLS, it is critical to continue chest compression with minimal interruptions. ACLS survey is often done by many team members, and should be on an ongoing basis throughout ACLS response. Airway Is the airway open? Does the patient need an advanced airway? Breathing Is oxygenation and ventilation sufficient? If used, is the airway device properly placed and monitored? Are CO2 and O2 sats being monitored? Circulation What is the current cardiac rhythm? Is IV/IO access obtained? Does the patient need fluids or medications? Differential Diagnosis Why did arrest occur? Are there any other factors? Can we reverse the cause(s)? 7 H's and 6 T's: pnemonic for mechanisms * hypoxia * hypovolemia * hyperkalemia * hypokalemia * hypoglycemia * hypothermia * hydrogen ions (acidosis) * thrombosis (MI) * tension pneumothorax * tamponade * toxins/therapeutics * thromboembolism * trauma |
| Here are further guidelines. |
| Here are further guidelines. |