ACLS Steps AI

Question 1

What is the first step in the Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm for VF/PVT?

Answer 1

Start CPR

CPR is critical for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest.

Question 2

What should be given after starting CPR in the Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm?

Answer 2

Give oxygen

Oxygen helps to support the patient’s oxygenation during resuscitation.

Question 3

What is the recommended action if the rhythm is shockable?

Answer 3

Shock

Shock is delivered to restore normal heart rhythm.

Question 4

How often should epinephrine be administered during CPR?

Answer 4

Every 3-5 minutes

Epinephrine increases the chances of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

Question 5

What should be considered alongside epinephrine administration?

Answer 5

Advanced airway, capnography

These measures help ensure effective ventilation and monitoring.

Question 6

What is the compression-ventilation ratio if no advanced airway is in place?

Answer 6

30:2

This ratio is critical for effective CPR delivery.

Question 7

What is the initial shock energy for biphasic defibrillation?

Answer 7

120-200 J

If unknown, use the maximum available energy.

Question 8

What is the first dose of Amiodarone in drug therapy during cardiac arrest?

Answer 8

300 mg bolus

This is followed by a second dose of 150 mg if needed.

Question 9

What are the reversible causes of cardiac arrest?

Answer 9

• Hypovolemia
• Hypoxia
• Hydrogen ion (acidosis)
• Hypo-/hyperkalemia
• Hypothermia
• Tension pneumothorax
• Tamponade, cardiac
• Toxins
• Thrombosis, pulmonary
• Thrombosis, coronary

Identifying and treating these causes can improve outcomes.

Question 10

What is the definition of Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC)?

Answer 10

Pulse and blood pressure

ROSC indicates that the heart has resumed effective blood circulation.

Question 11

What is the initial treatment for persistent bradyarrhythmia causing hypotension?

Answer 11

Atropine

Atropine is often the first-line medication for symptomatic bradycardia.

Question 12

What is the IV dose of Atropine for bradycardia?

Answer 12

1 mg bolus, repeat every 3-5 minutes, maximum 3 mg

This dosing strategy helps to increase heart rate.

Question 13

What should be assessed before treating tachyarrhythmia?

Answer 13

Appropriateness for clinical condition

Assessing the patient’s condition is critical for effective treatment.

Question 14

What is the first dose of Adenosine for tachycardia?

Answer 14

6 mg rapid IV push

This is followed by a normal saline flush to ensure delivery.

Question 15

What are the signs of persistent tachyarrhythmia requiring intervention?

Answer 15

• Hypotension
• Acutely altered mental status
• Signs of shock
• Ischemic chest discomfort
• Acute heart failure

These signs indicate that immediate treatment is necessary.

Question 16

What is the recommended action for wide QRS tachycardia?

Answer 16

Synchronized cardioversion

This is often the most effective treatment for unstable wide QRS tachycardia.

Question 17

What should be done if bradycardia is unresponsive to Atropine?

Answer 17

• Transcutaneous pacing
• Dopamine infusion
• Epinephrine infusion

These options provide alternative treatments for symptomatic bradycardia.

Question 18

What is the maximum dose for Procainamide in treating stable wide-QRS tachycardia?

Answer 18

17 mg/kg

Monitoring for hypotension or QRS duration increase is essential during administration.

Question 19

What is the usual infusion rate for Dopamine in bradycardia treatment?

Answer 19

5-20 mcg/kg per minute

Titration should be based on patient response.

Question 20

What is the action to take if tachyarrhythmia persists after initial treatment?

Answer 20

Consider underlying cause and increase energy level for next cardioversion

Adjusting treatment strategies is crucial for effective management.