Resuscitation & Pediatric Emergencies
ALS, BLS, PALS, NRP, Bradycardia, Tachycardia, and Broselow Protocols
Protocols
ABCDE Systematic Assessment
Adult ProtocolOverview
The ABCDE approach is the gold standard for systematic emergency assessment. Each component must be assessed and life-threatening conditions treated before moving to the next. This approach applies to all acutely unwell patients regardless of the underlying condition. Re-assessment should occur after every intervention and at regular intervals.
Key Points
- Assess and treat in order: A → B → C → D → E
- Treat life-threatening problems as they are identified before moving on
- Re-assess after every intervention
- Call for help early if the patient is deteriorating
- Use a structured handover (ISBAR) when transferring care
Monitoring
- ✓ Continuous SpO2 and heart rate
- ✓ Blood pressure Q5-15 min (or continuous arterial line)
- ✓ Respiratory rate Q15 min
- ✓ GCS/AVPU Q15-30 min
- ✓ Urine output hourly
- ✓ Temperature Q1-4H
- ✓ Fluid balance (strict I&O)