ACLS: Notes

Question 1

What are the four steps of the BLS survey to assess consciousness?

Answer 1

1) Check Responsiveness
2) Activate the emergency response system/ get AED
3) Circulation
4) Defibrillation

Question 2

What do you do when checking for responsiveness?

Answer 2

Tap and shout “Are you alright”

Check for absent of abnormal breathing by looking at the chest for chest rise and fall (5-10 seconds)

Question 3

What do you do when activating the emergency response system/ get AED?

Answer 3

Tell someone to call 911 and get and AED

Question 4

What do you do when doing the Circulation step in BLS?

Answer 4

Check the carotid pulse (5-10 seconds)
If no pulse, start CPR (100 compressions a minute at a depth of at least 2 inches)
No interruptions in compressions greater than 10 seconds!
Switch provider doing compressions every 2 minutes
Avoid excessive ventilations
If there is a pulse, begin rescue breathing at 1 breath every 5-6 seconds. Check pulse every 2 minutes.

Question 5

What do you do in the defibrillation step?

Answer 5

If no pulse check for a shockable rhythm with an AED? defibrillator as soon as it arrives.
Provided shock as indicated
Follow each shock immediately with CPR.

Question 6

What are indicators that CPR is not being performed well?

Answer 6

Capnography of < 10 mm Hg, or if Diastolic pressure is < 20 mm Hg.

Question 7

What are the six roles that should always be filled if there are 6 people present on scene?

Answer 7

1) Airway
2) Compressor
3) IV/IO Meds
4) Observer/ Recorder
5) Monitor/ Defibrillator
6) Team Leader

Question 8

What temperature should ROSC patients be cooled to to meet Hypothermia protocols?

Answer 8

32-34 Celsius, or 89.6-93.2 Fahrenheit