title: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: an update.
abstract: We are currently witnessing the emergence of a physiologic approach to cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The algorithms and recommendations provided by the AHA provide an excellent framework for managing cardiac emergencies. As new knowledge becomes available, these recommendations should be modified and expanded. Continued assessment of the patient is a critical factor in managing cardiac arrest. As more complex technology and newer medications crowd the resuscitation scene, it is extremely important not to lose sight of the patient and the basics of good resuscitation: airway, breathing, and circulation. Technology provides helpful adjuncts to our assessment but cannot replace direct contact with the patient and the information gathered by direct observation. Students often fix their attention on the cardiac monitor, treating the electrical activity but ignoring the patient. Only by bringing together our observations from the patient, the laboratory, and our diagnostic tools will our knowledge of resuscitation develop to the point where we can improve survival from cardiac arrest.
mesh_terms: D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000628:therapy; D000572:American Heart Association; D001639:Bicarbonates / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001950:Bretylium Tosylate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002118:Calcium / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002404:Catheterization; D004554:Electric Countershock; D004947:Esophagus; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation / Q000295:instrumentation; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000379:methods; D012151:Resuscitation / Q000193:education; D012964:Sodium / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017693:Sodium Bicarbonate; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D001639:Bicarbonates; D001950:Bretylium Tosylate; D017693:Sodium Bicarbonate; D012964:Sodium; D002118:Calcium