ACLS Medications Flashcards

Study Notes

ACLS Medications

Key ACLS medications include adenosine, amiodarone, atropine, diltiazem, epinephrine, ibutilide, lidocaine, magnesium sulfate, procainamide, vasopressin, and verapamil.
These medications follow protocols established by the American Heart Association.

Other Medications in Crash Cart

Commonly found medications include diphenhydramine for allergic reactions and naloxone for narcotic overdoses.
Other necessary supplies might include IV replacement fluids, sedatives, anticonvulsants, and medication as per facility protocols.

Intubation Supplies

Crash carts are equipped with tools for intubation, which maintains respiratory function by ensuring a clear airway.
This process involves inserting a tube into the trachea for assisted breathing.

Additional Supplies

Essential sundries such as syringes, IV tubing, scalpels, sutures, catheters, antiseptics, gloves, and a "sharps" container for waste disposal.

Drawer One: Drugs

The first drawer typically holds ACLS medications, with a focus on first-line and rapid sequence drugs.
A barcode scanner may be available for bar-coded syringes to streamline medication administration.

Drawer Two: Adult Intubation Supplies

Contains endotracheal tubes, airways, pressure cuffs, CO2 detectors, laryngoscope handle, forceps, guidewires, bulb, blades, and batteries.
Some facilities may have a dedicated intubation kit on top of the cart.

Drawer Three: Sterile Supplies

Stores sterile items like various sizes of gloves, gauze, tape, alcohol swabs, syringes, needles, conducting gel, and injectable saline.
May include facility-specific items tailored for nursing homes or orthopedic centers.

Drawer Four: Pediatric and Infant Supplies

Organized similarly to the adult intubation drawer but focused on pediatric needs.
Includes pediatric-sized endotracheal tubes, resuscitation bags, blood pressure cuffs, suction catheters, masks, cannulas, electrodes, and pediatric medications.

Drawer Five: IV and Blood Draw Supplies

Contains IV catheters, syringes, specimen tubes, tape, and tourniquets crucial for intravenous access and blood collection.

Drawer Six: IV Solutions and Miscellaneous

Holds IV solutions, IV tubing sets, surgical kits, and miscellaneous medical supplies.

Outside of Cart Equipment

Essential equipment includes an oxygen tank with a regulator on the left, a cardiac board on the back, and a defibrillator located on top.

Importance of Inventory Management

Establish an inventory list and schedule to ensure the crash cart is consistently stocked and ready for emergencies.
Restock immediately after use and do not return the cart to service until supplies are in their designated spots.

Resource Reference

For further information on crash cart management: UCDMC Clinical Skills Refresher

Description

Test your knowledge of ACLS medications used in emergency situations with these flashcards. This quiz covers essential drugs commonly found in crash carts, including adenosine, amiodarone, and more. Perfect for medical students and healthcare professionals preparing for advanced cardiac life support.