Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Program: Observation and Participation

Medication Management in ACLS

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) is a set of clinical interventions for the urgent treatment of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening cardiovascular emergencies. Effective medication management plays a crucial role in optimizing patient outcomes during ACLS protocols.

Common Drugs Used in ACLS

• Epinephrine: Used for cardiac arrest to increase coronary and cerebral perfusion.
• Amiodarone: Administered for ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
• Atropine: Used for bradycardia management.
• Lidocaine: Alternative to amiodarone for ventricular arrhythmias.
• Dopamine: Administered for hypotensive shock in post-resuscitation care.

Drug Dosages and Administration Protocols

Administration of ACLS medications follows strict guidelines to ensure efficacy and safety:

• Epinephrine: 1 mg IV every 3–5 minutes during cardiac arrest.
• Amiodarone: 300 mg IV push for ventricular fibrillation, followed by an additional 150 mg if needed.
• Atropine: 0.5 mg IV every 3–5 minutes for symptomatic bradycardia.
• Dopamine: 2–20 mcg/kg/min IV infusion for hypotensive support.

Conclusion

Understanding and applying ACLS medication management principles is critical for healthcare providers in emergency settings. Adhering to evidence-based drug administration protocols ensures optimal patient care and survival rates.