ALS

Question 1

What are the 2 groups

Answer 1

Shockable and non-shockable

Question 2

Shockable rhythms

Answer 2

VF

Pulseless VT

Question 3

Non-shockable rhythms

Answer 3

Pulseless electrical activity (Cardiac arrest where ECG shows a heart rhythm that should produce a pulse, but no pulse).

Asystole - No ventricular contractions, flatline.

Question 4

General Management

Answer 4

Defibrillators (for pVT and VF) 
Chest compressions 
Airway management
Vascular access, admin of adrenaline.
Identification and correction of reversible factors.

Question 5

Treatment of shockable rhythm

Answer 5

Tx for VF or pVT.

• Check signs for life, breathing and pulse.
• Call resus team, 2222.
• Start chest compression while putting adhesive pads on one below right clavicle the other left mid-axillary line.
• Stop chest compression, confirm pVT or VF using ECG, every move clear except chest compressor, remove oxygen devices.
• Designated person selects appropriate energy, if in doubt highest available. Give shock.
• When clear, start 30-2 chest compressions.
• Continue for two mins, pause to see monitor, if same continue, repeat protocol and give second shock.
• If pVT/VF persists give 3rd shock. Resume chest compression and give adrenaline 1mg IV and Amiodarone 300mg, withhold if any sign of return of circulation. Repeat as normal and give adrenaline 1mg IV every 3-5 minutes. after alternate shocks.