flatline protocol

Introduction

Electrocardiogram registers a flat line.

Procedure

• check power to both defibrillator & monitor
• check all connections
• check gain or sensitivity
• check setting for 'LEAD SELECT'
  • check each of leads
• if using 'quick-look' paddles, move paddles 90 degrees
  • move paddle at right upper sternal border to left upper sternal border
  • move paddle at left apex to right lower sternal border
• if using adhesive pads
  • do NOT unstick them & rotate
  • connect 3 limb leads

Differential diagnosis

• batteries dead
• monitor gain to low
• monitor cable not connected to patient, 3-lead connector, or monitor
• ventricular fibrillation with a sustained vector perpendicular to the monitor

More general terms

• protocol

Additional terms

• advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)