What is advanced life support (ALS)?

Advanced Life Support (ALS) refers to a set of life-saving protocols and skills that extend beyond basic first aid and basic life support. ALS is typically provided by healthcare professionals such as paramedics, nurses, and doctors who are trained to handle critical emergencies involving cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and other severe medical conditions. ALS interventions include advanced airway management, intravenous access, medication administration, cardiac monitoring, and defibrillation. The goal of ALS is to stabilize patients and improve their chances of survival during life-threatening emergencies until they can receive full medical care at a hospital.