The document outlines the universal algorithm for advanced life support. It begins with assessing if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping occasionally. If so, call the resuscitation team and begin CPR with 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths. Attach a defibrillator/monitor and minimize interruptions. Assess the rhythm and if it is shockable (ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia), deliver one shock. If the rhythm is non-shockable (pulseless electrical activity or asystole), continue CPR for 2 minutes while minimizing interruptions. The algorithm then details steps to take during and after CPR, including treating reversible causes, providing oxygen, establishing vascular access

1. european
resuscitation
council
Advanced Life Support
Universal Algorithm
Unresponsive?
Not breathing or only occasional gasps
Call
Resuscitation Team
CPR 30:2
Attach defibrillator/monitor
Minimise interruptions
Assess
rhythm
Shockable Non-shockable
(VF/Pulseless VT) (PEA/Asystole)
Return of
1 Shock spontaneous
circulation
Immediately resume: Immediate post cardiac Immediately resume:
arrest treatment
CPR for 2 min CPR for 2 min
• Use ABCDE approach
Minimise interruptions • Controlled oxygenation and Minimise interruptions
ventilation
• 12-lead ECG
• Treat precipitating cause
• Temperature control /
therapeutic hypothermia
During CPR Reversible causes
• Ensure high-quality CPR: rate, depth, recoil • Hypoxia
• Plan actions before interrupting CPR • Hypovolaemia
• Give oxygen • Hypo-/hyperkalaemia/metabolic
• Consider advanced airway and capnography • Hypothermia
• Continuous chest compressions when advanced airway in place
• Thrombosis
• Vascular access (intravenous, intraosseous)
• Tamponade - cardiac
• Give adrenaline every 3-5 min
• Toxins
• Correct reversible causes
• Tension pneumothorax
www.erc.edu | info@erc.edu
Published October 2010 by European Resuscitation Council Secretariat vzw, Drie Eikenstraat 661, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
Product reference: Poster_10_ALS_01_01_ENG Copyright European Resuscitation Council