ALS

Question 1

How do you identify a cardiac arrest?

Answer 1

Unresponsiveness and absent or abnormal breathing

Question 2

How many joules are recommended for monophasic vs biphasic defibrillation for pulseless VT/VF?

Answer 2

Mono- 360 joules

Biphasic - 200 joules

Question 3

When is adrenaline administered in ALS?

Answer 3

After the second shock. 1 mg and then every 4 minutes i.e. alternate cycles

Question 4

When is amiodarone given?

Answer 4

After the 3rd shock

Question 5

What is the Mx of a shockable rhythm (pulseless VT, VF)?

Answer 5

Shock and then CPR for 2 minutes

Question 6

what is the Mx of a non-shockable rhythm PEA?

Answer 6

CPR for 2 minutes
Give adrenaline 1 mg as soon as IV access is achieved
Continue CPR until airway secured
Continue chest compressions without pausing during ventillation
Consider reversiable causes of PEA
Recheck pt after 2 minutes by preparing to defibrillate
Continue CPR
recheck pt
Give adrenaline alternate loops i.e. q 3-5 min

Question 7

What is the Mx of asystole?

Answer 7

CPR 30:2
Give adrenaline 1 mg ASAP
CPR until airway secured
Cont CRP without stopping during ventillation
Consider reversible causes of CPR
Recheck pt after 2 minutes by preparing defub
Cont CPR
Recheck pt
Give adrenaine q 3-5 minutes

Question 8

What are the 4 Hs and 4Ts?

Answer 8

Hypoxia
Hypovolaemia
Hypovolaemia
Hyperkal, Hypocal, acidaemia

Tension pneumothorax
Thrombus
Tamponade
Toxic substances