TMM

What are the two categories of rhythms into which patients are divided during a cardiac arrest?

'Shockable' rhythms: VF/pulseless VT and 'non-shockable' rhythms: asystole/PEA

In ALS what is the recommended ratio of chest compressions to ventilation?

30:2

What happens with chest compressions when the defibrillator is charging?

They continue

In VF/pulseless VT, shocks are followed by how many minutes of CPR?

Single shock followed by 2 minutes of CPR

What is recommended if a cardiac arrest is witnessed in a monitored patient in a coronary care unit?

'Up to three quick successive (stacked) shocks'

What is the first-line route for drug delivery during a cardiac arrest?

IV access

If IV access cannot be achieved, what is the alternative route for drug delivery?

Intraosseous route (IO)

Is the delivery of drugs via a tracheal tube recommended during a cardiac arrest?

No, it is no longer recommended

When should adrenaline 1 mg be given for non-shockable rhythms?

As soon as possible

When should adrenaline 1 mg be given during a VF/VT cardiac arrest?

Once chest compressions have restarted after the third shock

How often should adrenaline 1 mg be repeated during ALS for VF/VT cardiac arrest?

Every 3-5 minutes

When should amiodarone 300 mg be given for VF/pulseless VT?

After 3 shocks have been administered

When should a further dose of amiodarone 150 mg be given for VF/pulseless VT?

After 5 shocks have been administered

What can be used as an alternative to amiodarone if not available?

Lidocaine

When should thrombolytic drugs be considered?

If a pulmonary embolus is suspected

How long should CPR be continued if thrombolytic drugs are given?

60-90 minutes

Is atropine recommended for routine use in asystole or PEA?