Adult Basic Life Support (BLS) Algorithm

For anyone who might face emergencies involving adults, understanding the Adult BLS algorithm is crucial. This includes health care professionals, workplace safety officers, or anyone who wants to be prepared to respond effectively in life-threatening scenarios.

This algorithm is an in-depth guide to the critical steps and procedures you will need to undertake during an emergency response, improving your readiness to provide life-saving care in real-life scenarios.

What is the Adult BLS Algorithm?

The adult BLS algorithm involves sequenced life-saving actions directed toward assisting adults in emergencies, particularly in cases of cardiac arrest. These easy-to-understand steps are designed to be simple but crucial, empowering individuals with the required knowledge to take swift action that can significantly improve survival rates.

Adult BLS Algorithm

Key Steps of the Adult BLS Algorithm

1. Initial Assessment

Unresponsive without Normal Respirations: Check for responsiveness and normal breathing.

Action: Call 911 immediately and get an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

2. Ensure High-Quality CPR

Start chest compressions (hard and fast) within 10 seconds

Allow for complete chest recoil between compressions.

Minimal interruptions between chest compressions.

Do not over-ventilate.

Ensure that each breath makes the chest rise.

3. Assess Circulation

Check for Pulse: If the patient’s breathing is abnormal, quickly check for a pulse (within five to 10 seconds). Administer one breath every five to six seconds.

If No Pulse or Unsure: Immediately begin cycles of 30 compressions followed by two breaths.

4. AED Advanced Care

AED Arrives, and Shock is Administered: Immediately resume CPR for two minutes. Assess rhythm every two minutes and repeat shock administration if mentioned on the AED device.

No Shock Advised: Continue CPR and reassess the patient’s rhythm after every two minutes.

Continue steps until ACLS providers arrive or until the patient shows signs of return to circulation.

The adult BLS algorithm helps to prepare you in the case of an emergency involving adult patients. Regular training and up-to-date certification can prepare you for emergencies in which you must respond quickly.

Make sure you are prepared to save lives in an emergency. Obtaining the right skills through an adult BLS certification can be a life-saving advantage. Visit our BLS certification page below to learn more about our courses and getting certified.

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