ALS Skills & Procedures

Starting an IV

This is probably a little long of a video for the skill, but it works.

This is a quick and simple video on the IO. More demonstrations are available on YouTube.

This is a good example of IV blood draw with a vacutainer. You can do the same with a syringe. However, you need to get the syringe to a partner to put in the tubes, or you need to work fast getting it in the tubes to prevent your sample from hemolyzing. It is also nice to draw off the extension set rather than the hub because it saves a mess and a hassle!

Really this is a BLS skill, as all providers should know how to set up an EKG!

Acquiring a 12-Lead: Lifepak

Acquiring a 12-Lead: Zoll

This video is not very good quality... but it's the best I could find.

Transcutaneous Pacing

Synchronized Cardioversion

This is done by a Physician and RT, but the same concept! The procedure of Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI) is the same, however, medications are used to sedate and paralyze the patient prior.

*It is imperative that you have all of your equipment together prior to the procedure so you can quickly and smoothly intubate the patient.

A quick little video on the Zoll vent for intubated patients. This machine can also do BiPAP.

Surgical Airway

Quick-Trach

Needle Decompression