Cardiovascular
Cardiac Arrest — Initial Steps
Initial steps in sudden cardiac arrest: early recognition, chest compressions before code team arrival, and adherence to ACLS guidelines.
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Early recognition and treatment is key. Begin chest compressions before the code team arrives.
Immediate Steps
Recognize cardiac arrest — unresponsive, no pulse, no/agonal breathing • Call for help — activate code blue • Begin high-quality...Section
Immediate Steps
Recognize cardiac arrest — unresponsive, no pulse, no/agonal breathing • Call for help — activate code blue • Begin high-quality...- Recognize cardiac arrest — unresponsive, no pulse, no/agonal breathing
- Call for help — activate code blue
- Begin high-quality CPR immediately
- Rate: 100–120 compressions/minute
- Depth: 2–2.4 inches (5–6 cm)
- Full recoil between compressions
- Minimize interruptions (< 10 seconds)
- Attach defibrillator/AED as soon as available
- Follow ACLS algorithm when code team arrives
Key Principle
Do not delay CPR. High-quality chest compressions are the single most important intervention in cardiac arrest.Section
Key Principle
Do not delay CPR. High-quality chest compressions are the single most important intervention in cardiac arrest.Do not delay CPR. High-quality chest compressions are the single most important intervention in cardiac arrest.
Refer to current AHA ACLS guidelines and your institution's code blue protocol for the full algorithm.
- Adapted from SurgCritCare. org for structured display and mobile use. Follow current AHA ACLS guidelines and institutional code blue protocols.*