Cardiac Arrest

Question 1

What is done in a shockable rhythm?

Answer 1

VF/VT

Single shock followed by CPR for 2 mins
After 3 shocks give 1mg adrenaline and repeat every 3-5 mins (or 2 cycles)
After 3 shocks give amiodarone 300mg, after a further 2 shocks give 150mg amiodarone

This is if they remain in shockable rhythm

Question 2

What is done in non shockable rhythm?

Answer 2

Give 1mg adrenaline ASAP and repeat every 3-5 minutes

Question 3

What are the reversible causes of cardiac arrest?

Answer 3

Hypo/erthermia
Hypo/hyperkalaemia
Hypoxia
Hypovolaemia
Toxins
Thrombus
Tamponade
Tension pneumothorax

Question 4

What are the differences with children?

Answer 4

Give 5 rescue breaths first as likely hypoxic cause

Adrenaline given at 10mcg/kg