Please provide clarification regarding the information provided in the ACLS Provider manual on Vasopressin.
A:
The information in the ACLS Provider manual is correct, however a statement regarding Vasopressin from the ACLS Advisory Faculty Committee is as follows:
Vasopressin effects have not been shown to differ from those of epinephrine in cardiac arrest so one dose of vasopressin 40 U IV/IO may replace either the first or second dose of epinephrine in the treatment of pulseless arrest (Class Indeterminate). Epinephrine should be resumed every 3-5 minutes following vasopressin administration.
The automated external defibrillator (AED) is a computerized medical device that can check a person’s heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires a defibrillation shock and advise the rescuer to deliver the shock if needed. The AED uses voice prompts, lights and text messages to tell the rescuer the steps they need to take. AEDs are very accurate and easy to use. With a few hours of education, anyone can learn to operate an AED safely. There are many different brands of AEDs, but the same basic steps apply to all of them. We do not recommend a specific model.
Public access to defibrillation (PAD) means making Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) available in public and/or private places where large numbers of people gather.
Where will we be able to get the exams that are given to BLS students? Is there a cost?
A:
The BLS Provider exams are available on the ‘Restart’ website after an Instructor logs into the secure portal. All exams are posted on the ‘Course Materials’ webpage.
How much are the student provider course manuals? Is there a separate manual and cost for Lay rescuers which would be our maintenance people at the hospital for instance? Is there a different test for Lay rescuers?
A:
The BLS for HCP Provider manual is $13.95 through Laerdal. The remaining materials, Heartsaver, Heartsaver AED, Family and Friends, are available through the ‘Restart’ website (add link to BLS Training Materials 3.3.1). With reference to the tests/exams, you can use the same for all courses.
I’ve reviewed the four check list evaluation forms we are to use to evaluate skills but I didn't see any evaluation forms for conscious or unconscious choking. Do we not evaluate that anymore or just not use a checklist?
A:
Responsive and unresponsive choking are not considered ‘testable’ skill sets anymore. They still do it in the course as a skill but a not required to test the skill. The reason is due to the ease of responsive choking and the closeness of unresponsive choking to CPR.
Can I use the CPR Anytime Kits to teach my CPR – BLS Courses?
A:
Yes, as an instructor you can purchase the CPR Anytime Kits and use them for a CPR class, but then give the kits to their students to take home and use throughout the year to refresh their skills and teach others in the household how to perform proper CPR and AED.
How do I get an AED in my facility? How many units will I need and where do I place them?
A:
HSFO recommends the ratio of 1000 employees: 1 AED unit. The caller should contact the local EMS to initiate conversations regarding AED placement in facility. Local EMS will then visit the site to do initial assessment which will determine how many units are needed and where they should be placed.
