ACLS Provider: Course

Special Resuscitation Scenarios

While standard ACLS algorithms provide a foundation for managing most cardiac arrest situations, certain circumstances require modifications to optimize patient outcomes. These special resuscitation scenarios demand careful adaptation based on the underlying cause.

Hypothermia:

• Handle the Patient Gently: Minimize movement to prevent triggering arrhythmias.
• Gradual Rewarming:
  • Warmed IV fluids.
  • Warmed blankets and external warming devices.
  • Consider active internal rewarming for severe cases.
• Continue CPR and Defibrillation: Follow standard protocols; defibrillation and medications may be less effective until the core temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F).

Toxic Overdose:

• Administer Specific Antidotes:
  • Naloxone: For opioid overdose.
  • Other antidotes based on specific toxins (e.g., flumazenil, hydroxocobalamin).
• Activated Charcoal: If ingestion occurred within the past hour and airway is protected.
• Supportive Care:
  • Airway management and ventilatory support.
  • Vasopressors for hypotension.
  • Monitor for toxidromes to guide treatment.

Pregnancy:

• Left-Side Positioning: Tilt or manually displace the uterus to relieve inferior vena cava compression.
• High-Quality CPR: Standard CPR with continuous manual left uterine displacement.
• Emergency Cesarean Section: Consider if ROSC is not achieved quickly and the fetus is viable (>24 weeks gestation).

Other Considerations:

• Drowning: Focus on rapid oxygenation and ventilation due to primary hypoxia.
• Tension Pneumothorax: Suspect if signs present; perform immediate needle decompression to relieve pressure.