Advanced life support

Question 1

Shockable rhythms?

Answer 1

Ventricular fibrillation

Pulseless ventricular tachycardia

Question 2

Non-shockable rhythms?

Answer 2

Pulseless electrical activity

Asystole

Question 3

Reversible causes of cardiac arrest? (4 Hs and 4 Ts)

Answer 3

Hypoxia
Hypovolaemia
Hypo/hyperkalaemia, metabolic
Hypothermia

Thrombosis (coronary/pulmonary)
Tension pneumothorax
Tamponade
Toxins

Question 4

After shocking, what should happen next?

Answer 4

Immediately resume CPR for 2 mins; then re-assess rhythm

Question 5

When should adrenaline be given?

Answer 5

Every 3-5 mins for both shockable and non-shockable rhythms (while performing CPR)

Question 6

When should amiodarone be given?

Answer 6

After 3 shocks (while performing CPR)

Question 7

What are high-quality chest compressions?

Answer 7

5-6cm depth; rate of 100-120 per minute

Question 8

Dose of adrenaline given?

Answer 8

1mg

Question 9

Dose of amiodarone given?

Answer 9

300mg

Question 10

Treatment of PEA/asystole? (4)

Answer 10

CPR 30:2
Adrenaline 1mg as soon as access is achieved
Re-check rhythm after 2 mins; if electrical activity compatible with life, check pulse

Question 11

How does the algorithm differ if arrest is witnessed in a monitored patient e.g. in CCU?

Answer 11

3 successive shocks are given

Question 12

Following successful resuscitation oxygen should be titrated to achieve saturations of…?

Answer 12

94-98%