Pass ACLS Tip of the Day

Accidental hypothermia is one of the Hs in ACLS’s reversible H&T cause of cardiac arrest.Hypothermic patients aren't dead until they are warm and dead.As the body’s temperature drops below 36° C, hypothermia may be classified as moderate or severe.Modifying the ACLS Adult Cardiac Arrest algorithm for patients with severe hypothermia.Following the ACLS algorithm for patients with a body core temperature above 30° C.Methods for rewarming patients with moderate vs severe hypothermia.Continuation of CPR and ACLS efforts until the patient’s body core temp is above 36° C.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

The use of calcium channel blocker medications for tachycardias refractory to Adenosine and to lower the blood pressure of hypertensive stroke patients.Calcium is one of the ions that move across the cellular membrane during cardiac contraction and relaxation.The primary use of calcium channel blockers in ACLS.Use of calcium channel blockers for SVT refractory to Adenosine and A-Fib or A-Flutter with RVR.Contraindications of calcium channel blockers.Nicardipine use during the treatment of ischemic strokes.For more information on ACLS medications, tachycardia, or stroke check out the pod resource page at passacls.com.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review the ACLS treatment goals and targeted temperature management (TTM) for post-arrest patients that have return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).Post-arrest care and recovery are the final two links in the chain of survival.Identification of ROSC during CPR.Initial patient management goals after identifying ROSC.Indications for starting TTM.Monitoring the patient’s core temperature.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review the indications, contraindications, and safe administration of nitroglycerine to Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients with ischemic chest pain.Nitroglycerine’s effects.Assessment of vital signs prior to administering nitro.Indications for use of nitroglycerine.Nitroglycerine's contraindications & considerations for use.Use of nitro with patients taking PDE inhibitors.Administration of nitroglycerine to patients with ischemic chest pain.Considerations for patients that took their home nitroglycerine.Monitoring patient's pain and vital signs after nitro administration.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Identification of Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) & Atrial Flutter on the ECG and the treatment of unstable and stable SVT patients with A-Fib/Flutter.The ECG characteristics of A-Fib and A-Flutter.Recognition and treatment of unstable patients in A-Fib/Flutter with rapid ventricular response (RVR).Suggested energy settings for synchronized cardioversion of unstable patients with a narrow complex tachycardia.Team safety when cardioverting an unstable patient in A-FIB/Flutter.Adenosine’s role for stable SVT patients with underlying atrial rhythms.Treatment of stable patients in A-Fib/Flutter with RVR.For other medical podcasts that cover narrow complex tachycardias, visit the pod resource page at passacls.com.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review of Tablets & Toxins as an ACLS H &T reversible causes of cardiac arrest with some specific, commonly encountered examples.The majority of toxins don’t have a specific antidote.  There are a few toxins for which we have emergency interventions and ACLS providers should be familiar with.Reviewing the patient's medical history for indicators that may lead us to suspect a tablet/toxin cause of cardiac arrest.Administration of Narcan for suspected narcotics overdose following the Opioid Associated Emergency algorithm.Other common ACLS Tablet Toxin scenarios with possible treatments.Medications commonly used to treat specific toxins that are regularly stocked on crash carts or carried in EMS med bags.ACLS providers that suspect a specific toxin should consult with their Pharmacy or call Poison Control for treatment directions.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn Poison Myths and Misconceptions on The Pharmacists Voice podcast:https://www.thepharmacistsvoice.com/podcast/poison-myths-and-misconceptions-discussion-part-1-of-5-with-angel-bivens-rph-and-wendy-stephan-phd/

Why we use algorithms.Generally speaking, if there’s a change in a patient’s condition, we should ensure we’re using the correct algorithm.Three key points to remember when using ACLS algorithms.Walk through of an example mega code scenario with explanations of when and why we change to a different ACLS algorithm.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review of when we should consider beta blocker use in ACLS's Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) & Tachycardia algorithms and when they're contraindicated.Beta blocking medications attach to Beta receptors to inhibit or “block” the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline)and norepinephrine in the body.The primary locations of Beta I, II, and III receptors.Effects of epinephrine & norepinephrine stimulation of beta receptors on the heart.Beta blockers effects on the heart.When we should consider the use of beta blockers in the Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)and Tachycardia algorithms.Contraindications to the use of beta blocker medications.More detailed information about beta blocker’s mechanism of action and specific instances for their use can be found on the Pod Resource page at PassACLS.com. Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

A review of advanced airway use in ACLS’s Adult Cardiac Arrest algorithm including: advantages, types, insertion, and monitoring ETCO2.When we should consider insertion of an advanced airway for patients in a shockable vs non-shockable rhythm.In addition to an endotracheal tube (ETT), other ACLS advanced airways.The advantages of using an advanced airway over basic airway maneuvers.Use of end tidal CO2 waveform capnography to confirm placement and assess the adequacy of CPR.Identification and management of a misplaced ET tube.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Indications & use of an antiarrhythmic infusion of Amiodarone or Lidocaine for cardiac arrest patients that have return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).Our primary focus immediately following return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).Post-arrest goals for O2 saturation, ETCO2, and BP/MAP.Indications for use of an antiarrhythmic after ROSC.Determining which antiarrhythmic to use post cardiac arrest.Administration of Amiodarone or Lidocaine after ROSC.The use of Amiodarone post arrest if no antiarrhythmics were administered prior to obtaining ROSC.Links to other medical podcasts that cover antiarrhythmics and other ACLS-related topics are on the Pod Resource page at PassACLS.com.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Hydrogen ions is on one of the Hs in ACLS's H&T reversible causes of cardiac arrest.  When considering hydrogen ions as a cause, what we’re looking at is the patient’s pH, or acid/base balance, and conditions that affect it.The body's normal pH.Using patient history, ABGs, & labs to determine acidosis or alkalosis.Common conditions/causes that may lead us to suspect acidosis.Common conditions/causes that may lead us to suspect alkalosis.Correcting acidosis by changing the rate of ventilations.The indications, dose, and considerations for use of Sodium Bicarbonate.Treatment of alkalosis.Other podcasts that cover acid/base balance and conditions that cause acidosis or alkalosis can be found on the Pod Resource Page at PassACLS.com.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

BLS & ACLS's Adult Cardiac Arrest algorithm makes it easier to act as team leader during a code by following an If/Then methodology.Review of BLS steps for determining if rescue breathing or CPR is needed and use of an AED for patients in cardiac arrest.If the patient is in a non-shockable rhythm on the ECG such as PEA or asystole, we will go down the right side of the Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm.If the patient is in a shockable rhythm on the ECG such as V-Fib or V-Tach, we will go down the left side of the Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm.An example of a code's flow for shockable rhythms when an antiarrhythmic such as Amiodarone or Lidocaine is administered.We will follow the algorithm until the patient has ROSC or we call the code.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review of aspirin's mechanism of action, indications, contraindications, and administration for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or stroke.Aspirin's mechanism of action & benefits for Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients.Contraindications and considerations for aspirin’s use.The dose and route of administration of aspirin for ACS patients.The use of aspirin in the ACLS Stroke algorithm.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review of lead II ECG characteristics, rules to identify first and third degree heart blocks, and treatment following the ACLS Bradycardia algorithm.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.Review of normal ECG morphology 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!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review of antiarrhythmic medications Amiodarone & Lidocaine for use in ACLS's Adult Cardiac Arrest, Post Arrest, and Tachycardia algorithms.The two first-line ACLS antiarrhythmics that are generally used.Lidocaine dosing and administration to patients in persistent V-Fib or pulseless V-Tach.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!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Review the indications, contraindications, sizing, and insertion of the nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) to maintain the airway of patients with a gag reflex.The tongue is the most common airway obstruction in an unconscious patient.When 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!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

The causes, physiology, signs & symptoms, and treatment of cardiac tamponade as an ACLS H&T reversible cause of cardiac arrest.When blood, or other fluids, accumulate in the sac around the heart it’s called a cardiac tamponade or pericardial tamponade.The effects of tamponade on the electrical system and chambers of the heart.Cardiac tamponade can be acute or chronic and caused by traumatic, iatrogenic, or pathological etiologies.Common traumatic events, medical procedures, and diseases that can result in a pericardial tamponade.Signs & symptoms of cardiac tamponade.Treatment of cardiac tamponade with pericardiocentesis.For additional information on cardiac tamponade, check out the Pod Resources page at PassACLS.com.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

The role of team leader, code team responsibilities, and the use of reference cards during your ACLS class megacode and written exam.Two things have changed in recent years to aid students that don't use ACLS in their daily practice.The team leader’s roles and responsibilities.Using closed-loop communication and speaking up if there’s any doubt about an order or action.Use of your course’s approved text book and quick reference cards during the megacode and written exam.Tips to help you pass the ACLS written exam.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

Early CPR and defibrillation improve cardiac arrest outcomes. Here's why CPR is important and five ACLS tips to reduce CPR interruptions.Two factors to cardiac arrest survivability that have been clearly shown to make the most difference.The most common dysrhythmia present during the first few minutes of cardiac arrest.How our chance of successfully defibrillating a patient into a perfusing rhythm significantly changes when good CPR is delivered vs when it isn't.Why bystander CPR is important for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) outcomes.The role of the CPR coach.Five tips to aid us in limiting CPR interruptions to less than 10 seconds so we can maintain a chest compression fraction (CCF) of at least 80%.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn

The use of quantitative waveform capnography in ACLS to confirm good CPR and placement of an ET tube, identify ROSC, and during post-cardiac arrest care.Waveform capnography use with, and without, an advanced airway in place.Monitoring end tidal CO2 during rescue breathing.Use of capnography to objectively measure good CPR.Capnography is a preferred method of confirming endotracheal tube (ETT) placement over x-ray during a code.Identifying ROSC during CPR.Quantitative waveform capnography use in the post-cardiac arrest algorithm.Good luck with your ACLS class!Links: Buy Me a Coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/paultaylor Free Prescription Discount Card - Get your free drug discount card to save money on prescription medications for you and your pets: https://nationaldrugcard.com/ndc3506/Pass ACLS Web Site - Other ACLS-related resources:  https://passacls.com@Pass-ACLS-Podcast on LinkedIn