ACLS Megacode Scenario 1 | ACLS-Algorithms.com

Comments

  1. yvette billbe says

    For question 3, shouldn’t you go to defibrillation since the patient is obviously unstable. The answer is synchronized cardioversion?

    • Jeff with admin. says

      In Question #3, the pt. has unstable VT with a pulse. Any VT rhythm with a pulse should be treated with synchronized cardioversion unless, the rhythm will not sync with the defibrillator. In the case where a VT rhythm with not sync with the defibrillator, then you would perform unsynchronized shock.

      Kind regards,
      Jeff

  2. cmwarner24 says

    Maybe this is obvious, but why is the first intervention for the pulseless VT an unsynchronized shock and not CPR? (question #4) Thanks, Carolyn

  3. Mehdi Davoodi says

    Question No.(5) is wrong. After defibrilation we should start CPR (chest compression) irrespective of the outcome. We look at the monitor only after two minutes of CPR.

    • Jeff with admin. says

      After the patient’s rhythm changed from SVT to pulseless ventricular tachycardia, you would use the left branch of the pulseless arrest algorithm. Also pulseless ventricular tachycardia is considered its own category for treatment. It is not considered PEA.
      Pulseless ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation are always treated using the left branch of the pulseless arrest algorithm.
      Kind regards, Jeff

  4. pearsonj says

    Why not give an unsynchronized shock @ 200j since you already have the Lifepac unit ready. Isn’t this the first step in a witnessed arrest?

      • Rosa M Strohbehn says

        Jeff, This is my first time studying for the acls. I find this web site very interesting and I know it will help me to prepared for the ACLS test. Do you have any suggestions for first timers?.
        Thanks, Rosa

      • Jeff with admin. says

        Just make sure that you cover everything in the site. Use the check list in the download library to make sure that you cover everything thoroughly.

        Relax in class. After using the site you will be thoroughly prepared.
        You will do great!

        Kind regards,
        Jeff

  5. NONNIE says

    Why would you not go to 360 J / maximum for your third shock? In practice I usually see the doctors escalate to higher shocks especially if the patients are heavy set.

    Thank YOU Nonnie

    • Jeff with admin. says

      I try and stick directly with what AHA recommends on the practice simulations. AHA calls for elevated shocks 120-200-300-360. If you started at 200 could also go: 200-300-360.
      So technically, there is nothing wrong with what you suggested. I have also seen some physicians go straight to 360 J. The AHA ACLS guidelines are just guidelines and a physician may use his/her discretion during a code situation.
      The reason why it is better to start as low as possible is the heart will become less responsive to each successive shock unless the shock dose is increased at least 50 J.

      Kind regards
      Jeff

  6. alex says

    You are in the ED and the patient is stable with SVT. A 12 lead ECG should be ordered as long as patient remains stable.

    • Jeff with admin. says

      If you look above the dashed line in the initial assessment, the ECG has already been performed. You are correct. The ECG should always be performed in ED as soon as possible.
      Kind regards,
      Jeff

    • Jeff with admin. says

      Vagal maneuvers are an effective treatment for converting SVT. It is not always successful, but it is a simple and fast method to attempt.

      The assessment listed above the questions indicated that the pt. was stable at the outset of the scenario.
      SKIN: Hydrated, pale, warm and dry
      CVS: Strong peripheral pulses and a BP of 125/80
      CNS: Fully intact
      RESP: RR is 22, no resp. difficulties, lungs CTA
      The monitor shows narrow complex SVT with a HR of 180.

      In this situation, the best indicator of stability is the blood pressure and the strong pulses.

      Kind regards,
      Jeff

  7. mwaliliform3 says

    Great site. Always my study material to keep up with my practice.
    Re-certification is Jan 17-2014. Hope this helps. Thanks Jeff

  8. Ken says

    I am a Firefighter and current Paramedic student. I found this on google while on shift and it was very helpful! we are currently going through cardiac in class, and I personnaly find this type of set up easier to learn than just reading. Thanks again! FF/EMT K. Schwartz

  9. dstanbery says

    I randomly came across this site this afternoon 12/9/13 while searching for help to do my upcoming ACLS recertification. After reading the comments from others I immediately registered. I am already smiling and I have not completed the entire review. THIS IS A GOD-BLESSED Site!
    I will let you know of my results after ACLS recert due on Saturday December 14, 2013.
    I will not hesitate to have all my colleagues visit this site.
    Thanks in advance Jeff you are a Gift to all.
    God Bless you.

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