5 Adult ACLS Algorithms Free Online FlashCards

What should you do if no definite pulse is found within $10$ seconds?

If no definite pulse is found within $10$ seconds, treat it as cardiac arrest and begin CPR without delaying to identify the exact rhythm.

Which rhythms are shockable in pulseless cardiac arrest?

Ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) are shockable rhythms.

How should PEA or asystole be treated during cardiac arrest?

Do not defibrillate PEA or asystole. Continue CPR, give epinephrine, and search for reversible causes.

What are the target adult CPR compression rate and depth?

Compress at $100\text{–}120$ per minute, to a depth of at least $5\text{ cm}$, allow full recoil, and minimize pauses.

How does ventilation differ with and without an advanced airway?

Without an advanced airway, use a $30{:}2$ compression-to-ventilation ratio. With an advanced airway, continue compressions and give $1$ breath every $6$ seconds.

What defibrillation energy is used for adult VF/pVT?

For a biphasic device, use the manufacturer-recommended setting, commonly an initial $120\text{–}200\text{ J}$. If unknown, use the maximum available; a monophasic device uses $360\text{ J}$.

What is the epinephrine schedule during cardiac-arrest resuscitation?

Give epinephrine $1\text{ mg}$ IV/IO every $3\text{–}5$ minutes during ongoing resuscitation.

What reversible causes are summarized by the Hs and Ts?

The Hs are hypovolemia, hypoxia, acidosis, potassium abnormalities, and hypothermia. The Ts are tension pneumothorax, tamponade, toxins, pulmonary thrombosis, and coronary thrombosis.

When is bradycardia clinically concerning?

A rate typically below $50$/min may represent bradyarrhythmia, but treatment depends on whether it is inappropriate and causing compromise, such as hypotension, shock, or altered mental status.

What is the atropine dose for bradycardia with compromise?

For bradycardia with cardiopulmonary compromise, give atropine $1\text{ mg}$ IV; repeat every $3\text{–}5$ minutes to a maximum total dose of $3\text{ mg}$.

What can be used if atropine does not relieve bradycardia with compromise?

If atropine is ineffective, use transcutaneous pacing and/or an epinephrine or dopamine infusion, titrated to response; seek expert help.

What shock strategy is used for unstable tachyarrhythmia?

Use synchronized cardioversion for persistent tachyarrhythmia causing compromise. For polymorphic VT, use an unsynchronized high-energy shock because synchronization may be unreliable.