Which two rhythms define the two pathways in the ACLS cardiac arrest algorithm?

Which two rhythms define the two pathways in the ACLS cardiac arrest algorithm?

• A. VF/pVT and PEA/Asystole
• B. AF/pVT
• C. Sinus tachycardia and bradycardia
• D. VT and SVT

Answer: (A)

ACLS divides cardiac arrest management into two pathways based on whether the rhythm is responsive to defibrillation. The shockable pathway includes ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, which are treated with immediate defibrillation followed by CPR and medications as needed. The non-shockable pathway includes pulseless electrical activity and asystole, where defibrillation isn’t used and the focus is on high-quality CPR, airway/ventilation, and addressing reversible causes. This distinction is why the correct pairing is VF/pVT for the shockable pathway and PEA/asystole for the non-shockable pathway. Other options mix rhythms that aren’t the standard arrest split.

ACLS divides cardiac arrest management into two pathways based on whether the rhythm is responsive to defibrillation. The shockable pathway includes ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, which are treated with immediate defibrillation followed by CPR and medications as needed. The non-shockable pathway includes pulseless electrical activity and asystole, where defibrillation isn’t used and the focus is on high-quality CPR, airway/ventilation, and addressing reversible causes. This distinction is why the correct pairing is VF/pVT for the shockable pathway and PEA/asystole for the non-shockable pathway. Other options mix rhythms that aren’t the standard arrest split.