Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) is a set of evidence-based guidelines for medical professionals to treat life-threatening cardiovascular emergencies like cardiac arrest and stroke. It builds upon basic life support (BLS) by using advanced techniques including airway management, defibrillation, administration of medications, and effective ventilation to improve patient outcomes. Successful ACLS involves a systematic, team-based approach that includes rapid assessment, management of arrest and peri-arrest conditions, and post-resuscitation care. 

Key components of ACLS

• Systematic approach: Utilizes a standardized, algorithmic approach based on initial assessments and the ABCDE model (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure) to ensure a rapid and accurate response.
• Airway management: Involves using equipment like bag-valve masks or endotracheal tubes to secure an open airway and provide ventilation.
• Breathing support: Manages ventilation to ensure adequate air exchange, correcting any problems detected.
• Circulation support: Stabilizes blood circulation by starting IV/IO access, administering medications, and performing high-quality chest compressions, which are continued from BLS.
• Defibrillation: Uses an AED to deliver electrical shocks for specific cardiac arrest rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia.
• Pharmacology: Involves the administration of drugs like epinephrine to help stabilize the patient's condition.
• Team-based care: Requires a team of trained individuals who work together to manage the emergency effectively.
• Integrated care: Addresses both the immediate cardiac arrest and the subsequent care, including the management of acute coronary syndromes and stroke.