Advanced life support

A set of life-saving protocols and skills extending basic life support

Advanced life support (ALS) refers to a set of life-saving protocols and skills that extend basic life support (BLS) to further support the circulation and provide an open airway and adequate ventilation (breathing). ALS is used by trained medical personnel, including paramedics, nurses, and physicians, in the pre-hospital and hospital settings.

Components

ALS encompasses a variety of techniques and interventions, including:

• Airway management: Techniques such as endotracheal intubation and the use of laryngeal mask airways to secure the airway.
• Cardiac monitoring: The use of electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart rhythms and detect arrhythmias.
• Defibrillation: The use of electrical shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.
• Intravenous therapy: Administration of intravenous fluids and medications to support circulation and treat underlying conditions.
• Pharmacology: Use of medications such as epinephrine, amiodarone, and atropine to manage cardiac arrest and other emergencies.

Training and Certification

Healthcare providers who perform ALS must undergo specialized training and certification. Courses such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) are commonly used to train medical professionals in ALS techniques.

Applications

ALS is applied in various emergency situations, including:

• Cardiac arrest
• Respiratory arrest
• Severe trauma
• Stroke
• Acute coronary syndrome

Equipment

ALS requires specific equipment to be effective, including:

• Defibrillators
• Bag valve masks
• Endotracheal tubes
• IV cannulas
• ECG monitors

Gallery

• A rescue vehicle equipped for advanced life support.
  A rescue vehicle equipped for advanced life support.
• An emergency response vehicle used in ALS.
  An emergency response vehicle used in ALS.

Related pages

• Basic life support
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Emergency medical services
• First aid