Basic Life Support (CPR) – A critical component of ACLS
The most current research available suggests that quality CPR is a crucial variable in survival from
resuscitation attempts – even more important than previously thought. Every participant in an ACLS
class must correctly demonstrate adult CPR skills and use of an AED.
Follow these guidelines when performing Basic Life Support skills:
PUSH HARD: Compress the chest of an adult at least 2 inches, allowing for complete recoil of the
chest between compressions. 2.4 inches is the maximum depth. Do not lean on the
chest in between compressions.
PUSH FAST: Compress the chest at a rate of at 100-120 compressions per minute.
(30 compressions delivered between 15- 18 seconds)
USE CORRECT RATIOS: Deliver 30 compressions and 2 ventilations, in 2-minute blocks. Change
compressors every two minutes during pauses in compressions. At that time, also check rhythm and
pulses if indicated if the viewed rhythm is one that could produce a pulse. Patients with an advanced
airway in place should receive continual compressions.
MINIMIZE INTERRUPTIONS IN COMPRESSIONS: Stop CPR only for essential procedures, such as
rotating compressors, rhythm checks and pulse check if indicated, no more frequently than every 2
minutes. Ensure the pause in compressions is as brief as possible, no more than 10 seconds.
VENTILATE CAUTIOUSLY: Deliver breaths over 1 second, using just enough volume to produce
visible chest rise. With an advanced airway in place, deliver 1 breath every 6 seconds (10 breaths
per minute) while continuous compressions are being performed. For rescue breathing in a perfusing
patient, deliver 10 -12 breaths per minute. This equates to one breath approximately every 5-6
seconds.
DEFIBRILLATE APPROPRIATELY: Deliver one shock, as soon as possible, and then immediately
resume chest compressions. Check the rhythm and pulse if indicated after 2 minutes of CPR. At the
end of each 2 minute cycle, have the defibrillator charged and ready, if needed.