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

Usage

Provide the detected cardiac rhythm, pulse status, heart rate, and hemodynamic stability. The tool returns the appropriate ACLS algorithm with drug dosages, energy levels, and clinical decision points.

Safety Classification: CAUTION

This tool provides guidance for life-threatening emergencies. All clinical decisions must be made by qualified healthcare professionals. This tool does not replace ACLS certification, clinical training, or bedside judgment.

References

Panchal AR, et al. 2020 AHA Guidelines for CPR and ECC. Circulation. 2020;142(suppl 2):S366-S468.
Merchant RM, et al. 2020 AHA Guidelines: Executive Summary. Circulation. 2020;142(suppl 2):S337-S357.
Soar J, et al. 2021 ILCOR Advanced Life Support Consensus. Resuscitation. 2021;169:71-120.