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 <<link to Healthcare Provider BLS algorithm>>
- Basic understanding of common ACLS drugs, including the mode of action, the dosage used, method of delivery, and indications <<Link to Chapter 9>>
- 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
