Codes

Objectives:

1. Know the basic algorithms for different rapid responses
2. Know the dosing of medications and the indications for providing them
3. Learn post resuscitation care

Resources

Check out your code cards as you run through these resources! If you are familiar with them in advance, you will make better use of them in a critical moment.

Check out the "Codes" teaching featured in Resources, both Part 1 and Part 2

PALS algorithms:

• BLS: https://www.acls.net/pals-algo-cardiac-arrest-bls.htm
• PALS: https://www.acls.net/pals-algo-cardiac-arrest-als.htm
• Bradycardia: https://www.acls.net/pals-algo-bradycardia.htm
• Tachycardia: https://www.acls.net/pals-algo-tachycardia.htm
• Respiratory emergencies: https://www.acls.net/pals-algo-respiratory-emergencies.htm

Basic tips:

• Keep your cool. Once you check the patient for a pulse, check your own pulse, take a deep breath, and try to remain calm during the code
• Go through the basics: circulation, airway, and breathing
• There’s no shame in asking for help--ask for it early and often
• Get an attending STAT if there isn’t already one. It’s very easy to forget to let an attending know during the chaos of a code.
• Remember to ask someone to track time as it helps to space out when to give certain meds and when to recheck for a pulse.
• Delegate tasks. When running a code, your job is not to do the hands-on (assuming you have enough people), but to direct everyone and only focus on thinking.