Dec 12 • Jin Yong Choi

[Lecture Review] Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) and Emergency Medications

The CME session Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) and Emergency Medications offers a focused and structured overview of essential resuscitation principles that every clinician must understand during cardiac arrest situations. Rather than emphasizing rare or highly advanced scenarios, this lecture centers on practical components of emergency response—cardiac arrest recognition, high-quality CPR, defibrillation techniques, and the use of core ACLS medications—that directly impact survival outcomes and patient safety. By translating ACLS algorithms into clear, step-by-step actions, this session equips healthcare providers with the competence and confidence required to deliver timely, effective, and evidence-based resuscitative care in both in-hospital and out-of-hospital settings.
Lecture Overview – This lecture is structured around the following key learning objectives:
1. Enhance medical knowledge by understanding the BLS/ACLS algorithms for emergency situations.

2. Improve clinical competency by developing practical skills in essential emergency procedures.

3. Enhance patient outcomes through timely, evidence-based BLS/ACLS interventions.

From Algorithms to Action: Applying BLS & ACLS in Real Emergencies

This lecture moves beyond theory to show how resuscitation guidelines should be applied at the bedside. Starting from scene safety and patient assessment, learners are guided through the sequence of checking responsiveness, breathing, and pulse, followed by initiation of CPR according to the latest international recommendations.

The session also clarifies the differences between cardiac arrest and myocardial infarction, introduces the concept of shockable vs. non-shockable rhythms, and connects each rhythm type to appropriate interventions—whether defibrillation, CPR with medications, or rhythm reassessment.

Key highlights include:
Early Recognition & BLS Algorithm
The lecture emphasizes rapid recognition of cardiac arrest using a structured approach—consciousness, breathing, and pulse—while reinforcing the importance of scene safety and early activation of emergency response. Participants review the BLS sequence, including when to start compressions, when to add rescue breaths, and how to manage situations where rescue breathing is not feasible.

High-Quality CPR & Airway Management
Using clinical examples, the session explains what truly constitutes 'high-quality CPR': correct hand position, compression depth and rate, full chest recoil, and minimizing interruptions. The lecture also covers airway maneuvers (head-tilt–chin-lift, jaw thrust), recognition of ineffective breathing, and the use of pocket masks and Bag Valve Mask (BVM) to deliver effective ventilation while avoiding hyperventilation and gastric insufflation.

Defibrillation & Rhythm Interpretation
Participants are introduced to key arrest rhythms—ventricular fibrillation, pulseless ventricular tachycardia, PEA, and asystole—and learn how to distinguish shockable from non-shockable rhythms. The lecture provides practical guidance on AED pad placement, rhythm analysis, safe delivery of shocks, and immediate resumption of CPR after defibrillation, reinforcing the critical role of minimizing hands-off time.

ACLS Medications in Real-World Practice
The session also reviews core ACLS medications, focusing on epinephrine and its dosing, routes of administration, and safety considerations, as well as the roles of vasopressin, amiodarone, and lidocaine in shockable rhythms. Importantly, the lecturer highlights that while medications are valuable, high-quality CPR and early defibrillation remain the strongest contributors to survival, according to current evidence.

Why This Lecture Matters

For clinicians who may encounter cardiac arrest in the ward, clinic, or community, resuscitation is not an optional skill—it is a core responsibility. This lecture bridges the gap between guidelines and bedside practice, helping providers understand what to do, when to do it, and why it matters for patient survival and neurological recovery.

By revisiting fundamental principles with up-to-date recommendations and practical tips, the session supports safer, more consistent resuscitation care across diverse clinical environments.

Ready to Strengthen Your Resuscitation Skills?

Join this CME session to deepen your understanding of BLS and ACLS for cardiac arrest, refine your practical skills, and improve your readiness for real-life emergencies.

Whether you are a resident doctor or a healthcare provider seeking to refresh and standardize your resuscitation practice, this lecture offers immediately applicable, evidence-informed knowledge that can make a critical difference at the bedside.

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