The Impact of ACLS Training in the Management of Cardiac Arrest: A Narrative Review

Cardiac arrests can occur both in and out of hospital settings. Over the years, several protocols have been developed to standardize the behavior of healthcare professionals called upon to deal with these emergencies. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) algorithms enable healthcare professionals to effectively manage cardiac arrest and achieve better patient outcomes, particularly at the time of discharge.

We conducted a narrative review. Three databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane) were searched for relevant articles. The articles were screened and analyzed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.

A total of 1252 articles were initially identified. After screening, 11 papers were included in the review. From the selected studies, it has emerged that ACLS training had several positive effects, including an overall decrease in mortality rates. Adherence to ACLS protocols throughout an event is associated with increased Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) in the setting of In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (IHCA). Advanced Life Support (ALS) response interval in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest was associated with decreased survival and a favorable neurological outcome. ALS response ≤ 10 min was associated with improved survival and favorable neurological outcomes.

This review underscores the importance of adherence to ALS/ACLS guidelines in the resuscitation of patients who suffer in-hospital and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.