CCRN

A comprehensive study of CCRN, covering critical care nursing concepts from basics to advanced applications.

Advanced Topics

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

Saving Lives with ACLS

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) goes beyond basic life support by including airway management, medication administration, and electrical therapy (like defibrillation).

Key Elements

  • Recognition of Cardiac Rhythms: Identifying arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or asystole.
  • Algorithm-Driven Care: Following evidence-based steps for resuscitation.
  • Team Roles: Ensuring everyone on the code team knows their job.

Medications

Drugs like epinephrine and amiodarone are commonly used, and knowing when to give them is crucial.

When It Matters

ACLS skills are critical during cardiac arrest situations and can dramatically improve survival rates.

Examples

  • Leading chest compressions during a code blue and administering epinephrine per protocol.

  • Quickly analyzing ECG strips to determine the right intervention.

In a Nutshell

ACLS equips nurses to handle cardiac emergencies with advanced interventions and teamwork.

Key Terms

Defibrillation
The use of electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.
Arrhythmia
An abnormal heart rhythm.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) - CCRN Content | Practice Hub