RC (UK) Acute Arrest Management Demo

Key Facts

• When you discover a collapsed patient, assess them appropriately and call for help immediately.
• Once you have confirmed cardiac arrest, begin and maintain high quality chest compressions, combining with ventilation at a ratio of 30:2, or asynchronously when the airway is adequately secured.
• At your earliest opportunity, attach a defibrillator/monitor and assess whether the rhythm is shockable or non-shockable. Follow the ALS algorithm to ensure that you provide the best possible standard of resuscitation, including minimal interruptions in CPR.
• Consider the potentially reversible causes of the cardiac arrest and treat them appropriately whilst considering ways to maximise the effectiveness of CPR being delivered.

ACS Algorithm

1. Recognize myocardial infarction signs and symptoms early in the process:

2. Chest pain or discomfort radiating to the arm, shoulder, or jaw.

3. Nausea, vomiting and diaphoresis.

4. Sudden shortness of breath.

5. In the field, activate the emergency management system (EMS):

6. Support the airway, breathing and circulation and be prepared to provide CPR.

7. Administer aspirin.

8. Administer oxygen to maintain the oxygen saturation at or above 94%. Routine oxygen is not needed for people with normal oxygen levels (≥94%)

9. Obtain a 12-lead ECG in the field and transmit to the receiving hospital if possible.

10. Administer a nitroglycerin tablet every 3-5 minutes for ongoing pain.

11. Administer morphine for pain not controlled by nitroglycerin.

12. In the emergency department (ED):

13. Perform a 12-lead ECG if not done.