| Preface |
The success of the first edition of Advanced Cardiac Life Support Algorithms and Drugs for Adult and Pediatric Providers, published in 1993, confirmed the need for rapid reference information about emergency cardiovascular care. In 1997 the AHA published new textbooks for basic life support and pediatric and adult advanced life support. These new textbooks have prompted this 1997 edition of the ECC handbook. This new edition retains much of the material from the previous handbook. We have added the newest information about use of automated external defibrillators and management of acute ischemic stroke, ischemic chest pain, pediatric tachycardia, and pediatric trauma. All algorithms, tables, figures, and drug recommendations remain consistent with current ECC guidelines, based on the 1997 AHA textbooks and the recommendations of the 1992 National Conference on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiac Care. We hope this material is a useful reference for providers of emergency cardiovascular care. For cardiac arrest, you strive to prevent when possible, treat effectively when challenged, and support humanely when efforts fail. In honor of your efforts we dedicate this book.
Mary Fran Hazinski
Richard O. Cummins
Editors
This handbook contains treatment recommendations from the 1992 National Conference on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiac Care (JAMA. 1992;268:2171-2302), from the Textbook of Neonatal Resuscitation (1994), and from the following 1997 publications of the American Heart Association: Basic Life Support Heartsaver Guide, Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers, Pediatric Basic Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Emergency cardiovascular care is a dynamic science. Advances in treatment and drug therapies occur rapidly. Readers are advised to check for changes in recommended dose, indications, and contraindications in the following sources: Currents in Emergency Cardiac Care, future editions of this handbook and the AHA textbooks, and the package insert product information sheet for each drug.
We offer a special thanks to Carol Evans, former National Program Manager, ECC Programs. She originated the idea for a handbook of emergency cardiac care. William Thies, Director of ECC Programs, embraced the concept with enthusiasm and together with Carol and other National Center staff brought the idea to life.
© 1997 American Heart Association ISBN 0-87493-629-2
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