ACLS Introduction
The Initial Assessment
ACLS Essentials
ACLS Skills Training
Practice Megacodes Before Your Exam (Optional)
ACLS Exam

2025 BLS Guideline Changes


  • The Chain of Survival is now unified for all ages — adults, children, and infants (except neonates). The separate Pediatric chain is retired.
  • Infant compressions: Two-finger technique is now removed. Use thumb encircling (preferred, 2-rescuer) or one-hand compressions only.
  • Adult CPR: 30 compressions + 2 rescue breaths is preferred over continuous compressions alone (especially for health care providers).
  • Choking (adults and children >1 year): Begin with 5 back blows, then 5 abdominal thrusts; repeat alternating until object is expelled.
  • Management of cardiac arrest in pregnancy focuses on maternal resuscitation, with preparation for early perimortem cesarean delivery if necessary to save the infant and improve the chances of successful resuscitation of the mother.
  • Because recovery from cardiac arrest continues long after the initial hospitalization, patients should have formal assessment and support for their physical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs.
  • After a resuscitation, debriefing for lay rescuers, EMS providers, and hospital-based health care workers may be beneficial to support their mental health and well-being.