chapter 05 - in hospital cardiac arrest

Question 1

what is the algorithm for a collapsed/sick patient?

Answer 1

1) shout for help and assess the patient
2) assess for signs of life - carotid pulse and breathing

3) IF NO->
4) cardiac arrest
5) call and collect
6) high quality CPR
7) defibrillation
8) ALS
9) handover to Jesus team

10) IF YES->
11) call and collect
12) Assess - AE assessment, high flow O2, monitoring, vascular access
13) handover to resus team

Question 2

describe high quality chest compressions?

Answer 2

death of 5-6cm 
middle of the lower half of the sternum 
100-120 compressions per min 
minimise interruptions 
should initially give 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths

Question 3

in which cases should you perform uninterrupted chest compressions?

Answer 3

if patient is intubated or has igel inserted

Question 4

when should a pericordial thump be given?

Answer 4

only when it can be used without delay whilst awaiting the arrival of the defibrillator

Question 5

how is a pericardial thump given?

Answer 5

ulnar edge of tightly clenched fist, deliver sharp impact to the lower half of the sternum from a height of 20cm