Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) Advanced Life Support (ALS) Practice Exam – Prep & Guide

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, plays a critical role in cardiac arrest management primarily by improving coronary perfusion pressure. In the context of a cardiac arrest, effective circulation is essential to restore blood flow to the heart and other vital organs. During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), adrenaline helps by causing vasoconstriction, which increases systemic vascular resistance. This vasoconstriction leads to an elevation in blood pressure, particularly in the coronary arteries, thus enhancing coronary perfusion pressure. Improved coronary perfusion pressure allows for more effective oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, which is crucial for increasing the chances of successful resuscitation and returning the patient to a perfusing rhythm.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the role of adrenaline in this scenario. Although adrenaline can influence heart rate, its primary function during cardiac arrest is not to slow down the heart rate; instead, it is to support blood flow. It also does not prevent future heart attacks, nor is its role in lowering blood pressure significant in the context of cardiac arrest management. Instead, adrenaline aims to enhance perfusion and improve outcomes during resuscitation efforts.