Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

What is the recommended target temperature range for achieving therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest?

1. 28°C to 30°C

2. 32°C to 34°C

3. 36°C to 38°C

4. 40°C to 42°C

The correct answer is: 32°C to 34°C

The recommended target temperature range for achieving therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest is between 32°C and 34°C. This protocol is primarily aimed at patients who are comatose following a sustained return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after cardiac arrest due to a shockable rhythm, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. This temperature range has been demonstrated through various studies to improve neurological outcomes in patients by reducing the metabolic demands of the brain, minimizing cellular injury, and preserving neuronal function during the critical post-cardiac arrest phase. Maintaining a temperature within this range helps mitigate the risk of reperfusion injury and contributes to better overall survival rates with favorable neurological outcomes. While the other temperature ranges listed are either too low or too high, opting for temperatures below the recommended range can lead to an increased risk of complications such as coagulopathy and arrhythmias. Higher temperatures do not provide the intended neuroprotective effects and may, in fact, contribute to worsened outcomes due to the increased metabolic demand on the brain. Therefore, the range of 32°C to 34°C is critical for achieving the desired therapeutic effects.