ACLS Protocol Assistant

Overview

The ACLS Protocol Assistant is a clinical decision support tool that provides structured, step-by-step guidance through Advanced Cardiac Life Support algorithms. Built on the American Heart Association (AHA) 2020 Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care, this skill assists clinicians during high-acuity resuscitation events where rapid, protocol-driven care saves lives.

Clinical Context

Cardiac arrest remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Adherence to evidence-based ACLS algorithms has been shown to significantly improve survival-to-discharge and neurologically favorable outcomes. However, the stress and cognitive load of a resuscitation event can lead to protocol deviations, medication timing errors, and missed reversible causes.

This tool serves as a cognitive aid during resuscitation, similar to a code card but with dynamic, context-sensitive guidance.

Algorithms Covered

• Cardiac Arrest (VF/pVT): Shockable rhythm pathway with defibrillation, epinephrine, and antiarrhythmic dosing
• Cardiac Arrest (PEA/Asystole): Non-shockable pathway with CPR emphasis and reversible cause identification
• Bradycardia with Pulse: Atropine, transcutaneous pacing, and vasopressor management
• Tachycardia with Pulse: Vagal maneuvers, adenosine, cardioversion, and antiarrhythmic selection
• Post-Cardiac Arrest Care: Targeted temperature management, hemodynamic optimization, and neuroprognostication