Advanced Cardiopulmonary Life Support

The cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guideline of Advanced Cardiopulmonary Life Support (ACLS) for management of the patient with cardiopulmonary arrest in adults provides an algorithmic step-wise approach for optimal outcome of the patient inside the hospital by trained medics and paramedics.

This guideline has been developed considering the infrastructure of the healthcare delivery system in India and is based on evidence in the international and national literature. In the absence of data from the Indian population, the extrapolation has been made from international data, discussed with Indian experts and modified accordingly to ensure their applicability in India.

The ACLS guideline emphasises the need to recognise patients at risk for cardiac arrest and their timely management before a cardiac arrest occurs. The basic components of CPR include chest compressions for blood circulation, airway maintenance to ensure airway patency, lung ventilation to enable oxygenation, and defibrillation to convert a pathologic ‘shockable’ cardiac rhythm to one capable of maintaining effective blood circulation.

ACLS emphasises the incorporation of airway management, drugs, and identification of the cause of arrest and its correction, while chest compression and ventilation are ongoing. It also emphasises the value of an organised team approach and optimal post-resuscitation care.