OSHAA 30-Hours Essentials of Advanced Life Support (ALS)

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes for Each Study Unit

Introduction to Advanced Life Support (2 Hours)

• Understand the key principles and importance of Advanced Life Support (ALS) in emergency care.
• Differentiate between Basic Life Support (BLS) and ALS, and know when to transition from BLS to ALS.
• Identify ALS protocols and resuscitation algorithms for various critical situations.
• Comprehend the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals during ALS interventions.

Airway Management and Ventilation (5 Hours)

• Demonstrate the ability to manage a patient’s airway using advanced techniques such as intubation and supraglottic airways.
• Understand the indications and methods for positive pressure ventilation, including bag-valve mask techniques.
• Identify and troubleshoot common complications in airway management.
• Apply effective ventilation strategies in both adult and paediatric patients during respiratory emergencies.

Cardiac Arrest and Defibrillation (5 Hours)

• Recognise and interpret various cardiac rhythms, including those requiring defibrillation.
• Perform defibrillation using both automated external defibrillators (AED) and manual defibrillators.
• Understand the proper use of pharmacological interventions during cardiac arrest.
• Follow resuscitation protocols for adult and paediatric patients in cardiac arrest situations.
• Comprehend the post-defibrillation care required for patient stability.

Advanced Pharmacology in ALS (3 Hours)

• Understand the pharmacology of key medications used in ALS, including antiarrhythmics, vasopressors, and sedatives.
• Know the indications, contraindications, and administration routes for critical ALS medications.
• Recognise the timing and dosing strategies for medication administration in emergencies.
• Identify potential drug-related complications and manage them appropriately.

Monitoring and Assessment Techniques (3 Hours)

• Demonstrate the ability to use advanced monitoring equipment, including ECG, capnography, and pulse oximetry.
• Interpret vital signs and lab results to assess patient status in critical situations.
• Continuously monitor and reassess patients during resuscitation and stabilization efforts.
• Apply critical thinking skills to adjust patient care based on real-time monitoring data.

Advanced Resuscitation Techniques (5 Hours)

• Apply advanced resuscitation techniques to manage cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and shock in adult and paediatric patients.
• Understand the protocols for performing high-quality CPR and post-cardiac arrest care.
• Implement appropriate interventions for multi-system organ failure during resuscitation efforts.
• Demonstrate teamwork and coordination in delivering advanced resuscitation care in emergency situations.

Post-Resuscitation Care (3 Hours)

• Understand the importance of post-resuscitation care in improving patient outcomes.
• Identify strategies for monitoring and managing circulation and respiratory function post-resuscitation.
• Comprehend the role of neurological assessments and interventions after successful resuscitation.
• Implement post-resuscitation care plans to reduce the risk of organ dysfunction and enhance recovery.

Teamwork, Communication, and Leadership in ALS (3 Hours)

• Develop effective communication skills to manage teams during resuscitation and critical care situations.
• Understand the role of the ALS leader and practice delegating tasks in high-stress environments.
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure coordinated and efficient emergency care.
• Strengthen decision-making skills under pressure and maintain clarity during crisis situations.