ALS algorithm- reproduced with kind permission of Resuscitation Council (UK)
Unresponsive and not
breathing normally-Call resuscitation
team-CPR 30:2
Attach defibrillator/monitor
Minimise interruptions
Assess rhythm -Shockable
(VF/Pulseless VT)
1 Shock
Minimise interruptions
Immediately resume
CPR for 2 min
Minimise interruptions
Return of spontaneous
circulation
Immediate post cardiac
arrest treatment
Use ABCDE approach
Aim for SpO2 of 94-98%
Aim for normal PaCO2
12-lead ECG
Treat precipitating cause
Targeted temperature
management
Non-shockable
(PEA/Asystole)
Immediately resume
CPR for 2 min
Minimise interruptions
During CPR
Ensure high quality chest compressions
Minimise interruptions to compressions
Give oxygen
Use waveform capnography
Continuous compressions when
advanced airway in place
Vascular access (intravenous or
intraosseous)
Give adrenaline every 3-5 min
Give amiodarone after 3 shocks
Treat Reversible Causes
Hypoxia
Hypovolaemia
Hypo-/hyperkalaemia/metabolic
Hypothermia
Thrombosis – coronary or
pulmonary
Tension pneumothorax
Tamponade – cardiac
Toxins
Assess rhythm
Consider
Ultrasound imaging
Mechanical chest
compressions to facilitate
transfer/treatment
Coronary angiography and
percutaneous coronary
intervention
Extracorporeal CPR
From https://www.resus.org.uk/resuscitation-guidelines/adult-advanced-life-support/