Prerequisite Knowledge for ACLS
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Prerequisite Knowledge for ACLS
Evidence-based research and in-depth evidence review processes guide the procedures and guidelines for performing ACLS. Annual AHA guideline improvements reinforce the essentials of high-quality CPR, the links in the chain of survival, and BLS integration with ACLS. According to the AHA, high survival rates seen in studies are associated with several common elements:
- Training knowledgeable healthcare providers
- Planned and practiced response
- Rapid recognition of sudden cardiac arrest
- Prompt provision of CPR
- Defibrillation as early as possible within 3 to 5 minutes of collapse
- Review of new clinical data and approaches to patient care
- Organized post-cardiac arrest care
Key Takeaway
The successful ACLS responder should have prerequisite knowledge of:
- BLS algorithms and techniques.
- Basic understanding of common ACLS drugs, including the mode of action, the dosage used, method of delivery, and indications.
- Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use
- Basic ECG interpretation of common rhythms as described below.
To identify an abnormal ECG rhythm, the responder must know and recognize the morphology and components of a normal sinus rhythm:
- Presence of P waves
- Rate between 60 and 100 per minute
- Normal QRS complex
- Normal PR interval, QT interval, and ST-segment
Related Video: ECG Rhythm Review – Normal Sinus Rhythm
The clinician should be able to identify the following cardiac arrest rhythms: