Basic Life Support (BLS) for Adults

Understanding the adult BLS algorithm is essential for health care professionals and first responders when dealing with cardiac emergencies. This page provides a simplified overview of the steps of the Simple Adult BLS Algorithm, ensuring you are prepared to deliver effective Basic Life Support (BLS) to adults in critical situations.

What is the Simple Adult BLS Algorithm?

The Simple Adult BLS Algorithm is a streamlined sequence of actions designed to assess and manage life-threatening conditions in adults aged puberty and older. By focusing on the most critical steps, the algorithm enables rescuers to act quickly and confidently during emergencies.

Key Steps in the Simple Adult BLS Algorithm

1. Check Responsiveness and Ensure Safety

• Ensure Scene Safety: Before approaching the victim, ensure the environment is safe for you and the patient.
• Check Responsiveness: Firmly tap the victim’s shoulders and shout, “Are you okay?” to see if there is any response.

2. Activate Emergency Response System

• If Unresponsive:
  • Shout for help.
  • If someone is nearby, instruct them to call emergency services and get an AED.
  • Call emergency services and activate speaker mode if you are alone and have a mobile phone.

3. Assess Breathing

• Look for Normal Breathing:
  • Observe the chest for rise and fall.
  • Listen for normal breathing sounds.
• If Not Breathing or Only Gasping:
  • Begin CPR immediately following the adult BLS algorithm.

4. Begin High-Quality CPR

• Chest Compressions:
  • Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest (lower half of the sternum).
  • Place your other hand on top, interlocking your fingers.
  • Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly over your hands.
• Compression Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm).
• Compression Rate: 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
• Allow Full Chest Recoil after each compression.

• Ventilations:
  • After 30 compressions, open the airway using the head-tilt-chin-lift method.
  • Pinch the victim’s nose closed and give two breaths, each over 1 second, watching for chest rise.
  • Avoid Excessive Ventilation to prevent complications.

5. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

• Attach the AED as soon as it is available.
• Follow AED Prompts:
  • Turn on the AED and follow the voice instructions.
• Pad Placement:
  • Apply AED pads to the victim’s bare chest as indicated.
• Analyze Rhythm:
  • Ensure no one is touching the victim during analysis.
• Deliver Shock if Advised:
  • If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear and press the shock button.
• Resume CPR Immediately After Shock:
• Continue CPR starting with chest compressions, following the adult BLS algorithm.

6. Continue CPR Cycles

• Cycle Ratio: Maintain cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths.
• Minimize Interruptions:
  • Keep pauses in chest compressions to less than 10 seconds.
• Reassessment:
  • Do not stop to check for a pulse or breathing until emergency services arrive or the victim shows signs of life.

Importance of the Simple Adult BLS Algorithm

The adult BLS algorithm is designed to simplify the rescue process, making it easier to remember and execute during high-stress situations. Key benefits include:

• Immediate Action: Encourages quick response, which is critical for survival.
• Standardized Procedure: Provides a consistent approach that all rescuers can follow.
• Enhanced Survival Rates: Early and effective CPR using the adult BLS algorithm can significantly improve outcomes.