ACLS Study Guide ACLS Core Concepts
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Review
Check for responsiveness and breathing.Call for help and activate the emergency response system.Start high-quality CPR (100-120 compressions per minute, at least 2 inches deep, allowing full recoil).
Provide 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio if no advanced airway.
Use an AED as soon as possible and follow voice prompts.
- ACLS Algorithm Overview
Cardiac Arrest Algorithm (VF/pVT, PEA, Asystole) Bradycardia Algorithm (HR <50 bpm with symptoms) Tachycardia Algorithm (HR >150 bpm with symptoms) Post-Cardiac Arrest Care Cardiac Arrest Algorithm (Pulseless Patient)
Shockable Rhythms: VF & pVT
1.Start CPR (2 min) & give oxygen.
2.Attach defibrillator, check rhythm.
3.If VF/pVT, defibrillate at 120–200 J biphasic.
4.Resume CPR immediately & establish IV/IO access.
5.Administer epinephrine 1 mg IV every 3–5 minutes.
6.If rhythm persists, amiodarone 300 mg IV (then 150 mg if needed).
Non-Shockable Rhythms: Asystole & PEA
1.Start CPR immediately (2 min cycles).
2.Give epinephrine 1 mg IV every 3–5 min.
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