What is Advanced Cardiac Life Support? Equipment & Risks Explained

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a life-saving medical protocol used in emergencies involving severe cardiac issues. We know how crucial it is to be well prepared for situations where a patient’s heart or breathing stops. ACLS incorporates both basic life support and more advanced methods, such as the administration of drugs and the use of medical equipment to stabilise a patient's condition. This guide explains what ACLS is, why it is performed, and the medical equipment required. Along with that, we will discuss its risks and complications to provide a well-rounded understanding of the subject.

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What is Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)?

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) refers to a set of clinical interventions for the urgent treatment of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies. ACLS not only involves CPR but also advanced methods such as the use of defibrillators, airway management, and administering medication. Its goal is to improve the chances of patient survival before reaching a hospital.

ACLS providers must be well trained, as it demands quick, decisive actions and the correct use of advanced equipment. Proper certification and regular training are essential to mastering ACLS.

Why is Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Performed?

ACLS is performed to prevent death in patients experiencing:

• Cardiac arrest: When the heart stops pumping blood effectively.

• Heart attack: Damage to heart muscles due to restricted blood flow.

• Stroke: Reduced blood supply to the brain, causing brain cells to die.

• Severe arrhythmias: Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms.

• Smoke inhalation: Inhaling toxic fumes can lead to respiratory and cardiac arrest.

Each of these conditions requires immediate medical attention and the application of ACLS to improve the patient’s chance of survival.

Who Performs Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)?

ACLS is performed by trained healthcare professionals, typically in hospital emergency departments or by paramedics at the scene of a medical emergency. Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, such as:

• Cardiologists.

• Emergency room doctors.

• Anaesthesiologists.

• Paramedics.

These professionals are certified in ACLS procedures and are trained to handle high-pressure situations. Thoracic surgeons may also participate in administering ACLS in cases of severe cardiac complications.

How is Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Performed?

ACLS is performed using a structured approach that begins with Basic Life Support (BLS) procedures like CPR and progresses to more advanced techniques. Here are some key components:

• Airway management: Inserting advanced airway devices to maintain oxygen flow.

• Electrical therapy: Using defibrillators to restore a normal heart rhythm.

• Pharmacology: Administering drugs to improve blood flow or manage heart rhythm.

• Monitoring: Continuous observation using ECG and other medical equipment to assess the patient’s condition and response to treatments.

What Medical Equipment Do You Need to Provide ACLS?

Administering ACLS requires specialised medical equipment. Some essential tools include:

• Defibrillator: To deliver electrical shocks to restore heart rhythm.

• ECG monitors: To continuously observe the heart's electrical activity.

• Advanced airway devices: To manage the patient’s breathing.

• Medications: Intravenous drugs like epinephrine, amiodarone, and atropine to stabilise heart functions.

• Suction devices: To clear airways and facilitate proper breathing.

Having access to this equipment is essential in emergencies, and securing financing can help healthcare providers stay prepared.

What are the Risks and Potential Complications of ACLS?

While ACLS is crucial in saving lives, it does carry some risks:

• Broken ribs: Intense chest compressions may cause rib fractures.

• Lung injuries: Improper airway management can lead to lung damage.

• Medication side effects: Drugs used during ACLS may cause adverse reactions, such as irregular heartbeats or allergic reactions.

• Brain damage: Prolonged lack of oxygen to the brain can result in irreversible damage, even with successful resuscitation.

It is important to weigh the benefits against these risks when performing ACLS, but often the procedure is essential to give the patient a fighting chance.

Types of ACLS Treatments

ACLS treatments are tailored to the specific emergency that the patient faces. Common types of ACLS treatments include:

• Electrical cardioversion: Administering controlled shocks to correct abnormal heart rhythms.

• Medications: Administering drugs to address heart attacks, strokes, or arrhythmias.

• Chest compressions: Maintaining blood circulation through manual compressions in cases of cardiac arrest.

• Advanced airway management: Inserting tubes to ensure that the airway remains open and clear.

ACLS is an essential, life-saving technique that plays a critical role in emergency medicine. Doctors and healthcare providers must be well versed in the procedure and have access to the necessary medical equipment. If you are a doctor or medical professional considering upgrading your facilities or investing in doctor loan options, Bajaj Finance can help provide you with the financing solutions you need to enhance your services.