Responding to Asystole: Nursing Actions & CPR Guidelines

If asystole is suspected, the nurse should:

1. Call for help immediately. Asystole is a life-threatening condition and early intervention is essential.

2. Start chest compressions. Begin CPR using the most recent guidelines. Provide chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions, pushing down at least 2 inches.

3. Give rescue breaths. Provide rescue breaths with a bag-valve-mask device if one is available. Give two breaths, each lasting about 1 second, and allow the chest to fall before providing the next breath.

4. Continue CPR until the person's heart begins beating again or emergency medical personnel arrive.

Additional Considerations:

* If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, use it as soon as possible. Follow the prompts on the machine.

* If the person is not lying on a hard surface, move them to one.

* Remove any tight clothing that may restrict circulation.

* Loosen the person's collar and belt.