Algorithms

American Heart Association Algorithms

View and download all of the most up-to-date American Heart Association Algorithms on their website. Included algorithms are neonatal resuscitation, pediatric basic life support, adult basic life support, pediatric advanced life support, adult advanced life support, adult and pediatric special circumstances of resuscitation, and postcardiac arrest care.


Emergency and ACLS Medications – Adult Dosing

Medication Indication IV Dose ETT Dose
Adenosine SVT 6 mg bolus, repeat dose 12 mg ––
Amiodarone SVT, VT/VF, Afib 150-300 mg, then 1 mg/min
Atropine Asystole, Bradychardia 1 mg for asystole, 0.5 mg for brady 2 mg
Dantrolene Malignant Hyperthermia 2.5 mg/kg q 5 min up to 10 mg/kg
Diltiazem Afib w. RvR 0.25 mg/kg bolus, 5-15 mg/hr infusion
Epinephrine Pulseless VT/VF 1 mg q 3 min 2-2.5 mg
Flumazenil Benzodiazepine toxicity 0.2 mg q 1 min up to 1 mg
Glucagon Beta-blocker toxicity 5 mg bolus, 1-10 mg/hr infusion ––
Lidocaine Refractory VT, PVCs 1-1.5 mg/kg, 15-50 μg/kg/min infusion 2-3 mg/kg
Magnesium Torsades de pointes 1-2 g ––
Naloxone Opioid toxicity 0.2 mg q 2 min up to 2 mg ––
Vasopressin Pulseless VT/VF 40 units 80 units