PEA/Asystole Algorithm

Question 1

what is pulseless electrical activity (PEA)?

Answer 1

when you see a rhythm on the monitor that would normally be associated with a pulse, but the patient is PULSELESS

(rhythm can be anything, at any rate)

Question 2

first step once PEA/asystole is recognized

Answer 2

begin CPR at rate of 100-120/min

Question 3

next steps once CPR is initiated for PEA/asystole

Answer 3

• ventilate at rate of 10/min

- obtain IV/IO access

Question 4

what should be administered for PEA/asystole during CPR?

Answer 4

epinephrine 1mg IV/IO every 3-5 minutes

Question 5

how should PEA/asystole be treated?

Answer 5

find the underlying cause: H’s and T’s