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Pediatric Cardiac Arrest (PALS)

In children, cardiac arrest most often develops on a background of respiratory failure or shock; early recognition and high-quality CPR are critical.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Pediatric Cardiac Arrest (PALS)?

Pediatric cardiac arrest in children most often arises from primary hypoxia or shock-related asphyxia. Unlike adults, ventricular fibrillation is less common.

The Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) algorithm covers bradycardia, asystole/PEA and shockable rhythm scenarios; high-quality CPR, early airway management and pharmacologic therapy are central.

Post-resuscitation care (targeted temperature management after ROSC, hemodynamic support, neurological evaluation) determines clinical outcome.

Symptoms

Unresponsiveness
Absent breathing or gasping
Pulselessness
Cyanosis
Muscle flaccidity
Loss of consciousness
Abnormal rhythm (bradycardia, VF)

Risk Factors

Drowning, foreign body aspiration
Asthma attack, bronchiolitis, pneumonia
Shock (septic, hypovolemic)
Congenital heart disease
Poisoning
Trauma
Background of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 immediately when the child stops breathing or loses consciousness
  • Initiate treatment without delay in ventricular or bradycardic rhythm disturbances
  • High quality and minimal interruption of CPR are essential
  • Pediatric intensive care is mandatory after cardiac ROSC

Treatment Methods

01
Rapid unresponsiveness assessment and 112 activation
02
Compression-to-ventilation ratio 30:2 single rescuer, 15:2 two rescuers
03
Airway opening and bag-mask ventilation
04
Vascular/intraosseous access and adrenaline (0.01 mg/kg) every 3-5 minutes
05
Defibrillation at 2 J/kg in shockable rhythm
06
Search for reversible causes (Hs and Ts)
07
Targeted temperature management and pediatric intensive care after ROSC

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.