To pass ACLS, you will need to be able to identify common rhythms on a monitor during your mega code and ECG strips on your written exam.

If you don't normally monitor patients as part of your job, I suggest two things:

1. Find a system for ECG interpretation that works well for you; and

2. Practice reading ECGs every day for a few weeks before your class.

Review of normal ECG morphology of P wave, QRS complex, and T wave in lead II.

Characteristics of first degree heart block.

Characteristics of third degree (complete) AV block.

Treatment of unstable patients in third degree block following the ACLS Bradycardia algorithm.

Special considerations for use of Atropine when patients are in a third degree heart block.

The use of TCP, Dopamine, & Epinephrine drip for unstable bradycardic patients refractory to Atropine.

Good luck with your ACLS class!

Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor

Practice ECG rhythms at Dialed Medics - https://dialedmedics.com/

Safe Meds VIP - Learn about medication safety and download a free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://safemeds.vip

Pass ACLS Web Site - Episode archives & other ACLS-related podcasts: https://passacls.com

@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

In the Adult Cardiac Arrest algorithm, we should administer an antiarrhythmic medication to patients in V-Fib or pulseless ventricular tachycardia approximately two minutes after the first dose of epinephrine.

The two first-line ACLS antiarrhythmics that are generally used are Amiodarone and Lidocaine.

Review of Lidocaine dosing and administration to patients in persistent V-Fib or pulseless V-Tach.

Review of Amiodarone dosing and administration to patients in persistent V-Fib or pulseless V-Tach.

Use of antiarrhythmic infusions post-cardiac arrest to suppress ventricular ectopy.

Amiodarone use & dosing for stable patients in V-Tach with a pulse.

Good luck with your ACLS class!

Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor

Practice ECG rhythms at Dialed Medics - https://dialedmedics.com/

Safe Meds VIP - Learn about medication safety and download a free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://safemeds.vip

Pass ACLS Web Site - Episode archives & other ACLS-related podcasts: https://passacls.com

@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

The tongue is the most common airway obstruction in an unconscious patient.

For patients with a decreased level of consciousness that can't control their airway, yet have an intact gag reflex, the nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) should be used as an alternative to the oropharyngeal airway (OPA).

Examples of when a NPA should be considered.

Contraindications and considerations for nasal airway insertion.

Measuring a nasal airway for appropriate length and diameter.

Insertion of a nasopharyngeal airway into the right vs left nostril.

Patients with a NPA in place can receive supplemental O2, be ventilated with a BVM, have ETCO2 monitored, and have their upper airway suctioned as needed.

Good luck with your ACLS class!

Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor

Practice ECG rhythms at Dialed Medics - https://dialedmedics.com/

Safe Meds VIP - Learn about medication safety and download a free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://safemeds.vip

Pass ACLS Web Site - Episode archives & other ACLS-related podcasts: https://passacls.com

@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn