Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

Which combination of drugs can be administered via the endotracheal route when IV/IO access is not available?

1. Adenosine, Amiodarone, Epinephrine

2. Lidocaine, Epinephrine, Vasopressin

3. Dopamine, Norepinephrine, Atropine

4. Magnesium, Calcium, Lidocaine

The correct answer is: Lidocaine, Epinephrine, Vasopressin

The correct combination of drugs that can be administered via the endotracheal route when IV/IO access is not available includes lidocaine, epinephrine, and vasopressin. This is significant in emergency situations where intravenous access may be difficult or time-consuming to establish. Lidocaine is commonly used in managing ventricular arrhythmias and can be effective when given via the endotracheal route. Epinephrine is a critical drug for cardiac arrest situations, as it can increase coronary perfusion pressure and improve the chances of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Vasopressin can also be utilized in cases of cardiac arrest as it serves as an adjunct to epinephrine in resuscitation efforts. These particular drugs are favored for endotracheal administration due to their ability to reach systemic circulation despite the fact that they are not as bioavailable as when given IV. The alternative choices mentioned do not include combinations that are recognized for endotracheal administration.