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ACLS Algorithm: AHA 2015

Assess patient's responsiveness

Call for help and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or defibrillator

Check patient's pulse

Perform chest compressions

Open airway

Provide ventilations

Attach AED or defibrillator

Analyze rhythm

Deliver shock if indicated

Continue with cycles of CPR

Approval: AED Shock Execution

Administer drug therapy if required

Perform advanced airway management

Check for return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)

Post-resuscitation care

Transfer patient to advanced care

Report and document incident

Approval: Post Resuscitation Care

Monitor patient's condition

Debrief team post-process

Assess patient's responsiveness

Evaluate the patient's level of consciousness and their response to stimuli. This task plays a crucial role in determining the next steps of the ACLS algorithm. Are they conscious? Can they follow commands? Do they respond to pain or stimuli? If the patient is unresponsive, it signifies a more serious condition. Use the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) to rate their level of responsiveness, ranging from 3 (deep coma) to 15 (fully conscious).

Level of responsiveness

1

Fully conscious (GCS 15)
2

Confused (GCS 12-14)
3

Drowsy (GCS 9-11)
4

Unresponsive to verbal stimuli (GCS 6-8)
5

Unresponsive to any stimuli (GCS 3-5)

Call for help and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or defibrillator

Activate emergency services by calling for help immediately. Ensure someone is committed to contacting the medical team and providing specific details about the patient's condition and location. Assess if an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or defibrillator is available nearby. Early defibrillation is crucial for the patient's chances of survival, so it is vital to activate the appropriate resources promptly. Ensure that the person assigned to calling for help and retrieving the AED or defibrillator has the necessary knowledge and training for both actions.

Contact person

Is an AED available?