Algorithms for Pediatric Advanced Life Support
Last updated: August 9, 2022
Version control: Our ACLS, PALS & BLS courses follow 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC. American Heart Association guidelines are updated every five years. If you are reading this page after December 2025, please contact support@ACLS.net for an update. Version 2021.01.c
A critical part of Pediatric Advanced Life Support Training is an understanding of the PALS algorithms. This page is a free resource to the public to demonstrate these AHA algorithms. See our website terms. Compatible part number: 90-1055, 90-1053, 90-1056.
New! We now sell vinyl 8.5"×11"
crash cart algorithm cards ($60
$40 set of 10).
Cardiac arrest
The cornerstone of a successful resuscitation is delivering quality compressions for the highest percentage of time possible during the resuscitation (at least 60%). Throughout the following algorithm compressions are continuous except where noted otherwise, such as during defibrillation.
Bradycardia
Bradycardia is almost always symptomatic in infants and pediatrics. Many times it can represent a life threatening illness or injury. This algorithm guides us in the recognition of symptomatic bradycardia and provides us with the steps required for its initial treatment.
Tachycardia
The diagnosis of tachycardia can be a challenging one. In the infant or child with symptoms it is of the utmost importance. This algorithm provides guidance in differentiating the type of tachycardia (wide vs narrow complex) and provides for the initial treatment of the infant or child that is exhibiting serious signs and symptoms.
Respiratory emergencies
These are the most frequent life threatening emergencies in infants and children. This algorithm categorizes them into four categories, upper, lower, lung tissue disease and disordered work of breathing. The algorithm then provides us with the recommended treatment modalities for each type of respiratory emergency.
See our separate pages for ACLS Algorithms. New and for BLS Algorithms. Also, check our ACLS and BLS courses for more information or getting certified. Our courses are 100% online and accredited.
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New! We now sell vinyl ACLS crash cart cards
This is complete vinyl set of crash cart cards. This is a 4-page, double sided set we produced for use in operating rooms, emergency rooms, and ambulances. The cards are US Letter size (8.5" x 11").
Part no: 15-1008 (replaces 20-1110, 90-1010)
Price: $40 per set, 30% discount with purchase of 50 or more.