H’s and T’s of ACLS
In the critical moments of cardiac arrest management, the “H’s and T’s” framework remains an essential guide to uncovering reversible causes. However, a more intuitive memory aid can focus on “Highs, Lows, Tension, Toxins, and Clots.” This shift simplifies the approach: Highs and Lows represent metabolic derangements (hyper/hypokalemia), temperature extremes (hypo/hyperthermia), Hypoxia, Hypovolemia etc.; Tension highlights tension pneumothorax and tamponade; Toxins accounts for overdose or poisoning; and Clots encompass pulmonary embolism and myocardial infarction. By focusing on these five critical categories, paramedics can streamline their evaluation and treatment efforts, quickly addressing the most life-threatening conditions with targeted interventions.