Emergency Medicine Quick Reference: ACLS, ATLS and Common Emergencies for CMS Aspirants

ACLS Algorithm#

Cardiac arrest: CPR 30:2 -> Defibrillate if shockable -> CPR 2 min -> Epinephrine 1mg IV -> Amiodarone for VF/VT -> Continue cycle.

Bradycardia: Atropine 0.5mg IV -> Dopamine/epinephrine infusion -> Pacing.

Tachycardia: Unstable = synchronized cardioversion. Stable = amiodarone, sotalol, beta-blockers.

ATLS Primary Survey#

A = Airway with C-spine protection
B = Breathing (chest expansion, auscultation)
C = Circulation (hemorrhage control, IV access)
D = Disability (GCS, pupils)
E = Exposure/Environment

Cardiac Emergencies#

ACS (MONA), Aortic dissection (tearing pain, BP difference), PE (Wells score), Cardiac tamponade (Beck triad).

Respiratory Emergencies#

Asthma exacerbation (O2, SABA, systemic steroids), COPD exacerbation, Tension pneumothorax (needle decompression), Pulmonary edema.