Advanced life support

Question 1

What ratio are chest compressions:ventilation performed ?

Answer 1

30:2

Question 2

How is defibrillation delivered in ALS?

Answer 2

Single shock for VF/pulseless VT

Followed by 2 minutes of CPR

Question 3

When and how much adrenaline is given in non shockable rhythms?

Answer 3

Adrenaline 1mg ASAP
Repeat Adrenaline 1mg every 3-5 mins

Question 4

When and how should amiodarone be administered in ALS?

Answer 4

300mg should be given to VT/Pulseless VT after 3 shocks have been administered

A further dose of 150mg should be given after 5 shocks have been administered

Question 5

Reversible causes of cardiac arrest “Hs”

Answer 5

Hypoxia
Hypovolaemia
Hyperkalaemia, hypokalaemia, hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia, acidaemia and other metabolic disorders
Hypothermia

Question 6

Reversible causes of cardiac arrest “Ts”

Answer 6

Thrombosis (coronary or pulmonary)

Tension pneumothorax

Tamponade - cardiac

Toxins