Advanced Cardiac Life Support(ACLS)
ACLS
/ˌæd.vænst ˈkɑːr.di.æk laɪf səˈpɔːrt/
Synonyms: Advanced Life Support (cardiac) · Cardiac resuscitation protocol
Advanced cardiac life support with drugs and electrical therapy.
Overview
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is the suite of resuscitation protocols applied in cardiac arrest and severe arrhythmias. It combines correct medication dosing, defibrillation, intubation, and airway management per American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.
When is it used?
ACLS is used for sudden cardiac arrest, severe rhythm disturbances, severe hypotension, and cardiogenic shock.
Who can perform it?
Physicians, nurses, and emergency technicians certified in ACLS by the AHA.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BLS and ACLS?
BLS is basic CPR. ACLS adds drugs, defibrillation, and intubation — only for trained medical teams.
How long is ACLS certification valid?
Two years from issue date.
References
- 2020 AHA Guidelines for CPR and ECC — Panchal AR, et al. · AHA Circulation · 2020
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support — Roppolo LP, Wigginton JG. · NCBI StatPearls · 2023