ACLS Algorithms

The American Heart Association ACLS Algorithms continually change as we move into the new millennium. As the progression of science and technology evolves, we as health care providers must stay informed and aware of the changes in Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Below is an overview of the algorithms you will be required to study prior to attending an ACLS certification course.

Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia

Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia indicates rapid, coordinated myocardial electrical activity accompanied by an absence of myocardial mechanical activity. The heart is generating rapid, coordinated electrical impulses originating from a focus in the left ventricle, however no pulse is being generated. see Ventricular Tachycardia

Ventricular Fibrillation

Ventricular Fibrillation indicates uncoordinated myocardial electrical activity accompanied by ineffective myocardial mechanical activity. The heart is generating uncoordinated electrical impulses originating from multiple foci in the atria and ventricles. The heart is quivering, rather than contracting and no pulse is being generated. see Ventricular Fibrillation

Asystole

Asystole indicates a complete cessation of both electrical and mechanical activity of the myocardium. The heart is not generating any electrical impulses or a pulse. Asystole is most often viewed as a straight line on the ECG. However, a straight line doesn't always indicate Asystole. see Asystole

Supra-ventricular Tachycardia

Supra-ventricular Tachycardia is a narrow complex rhythm with heart rates from as low as 170 up to 300 beats per minute. The EKG monitor will display a regular narrow complex tachycardia. A patient suffering from SVT may or may not be symptomatic. Therefore, treatment can range from vagal maneuvers, Adenocard, Amiodarone or possibly synchronized cardioversion. see SVT