Post-cardiac-arrest care
Paediatric emergency management · Post-ROSC · Emergency
After return of circulation, optimise oxygenation and haemodynamics and find the cause.
- Target normoxia (SpO₂ 94–99%) and normocapnia; avoid both hypoxia and hyperoxia.
- Support blood pressure with fluids and vasoactive infusions to age-appropriate targets.
- Treat fever aggressively and provide targeted temperature management; avoid hyperthermia.
- Monitor and correct glucose, electrolytes and seizures (EEG if available); identify and treat the precipitant.
Common questions
What is the first step in post-cardiac-arrest care?
After return of circulation, optimise oxygenation and haemodynamics and find the cause.
About this page
Compiled from standard paediatric references. Verify against a current formulary and your local protocol.
Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page — corrections from clinicians are welcome and are reviewed before any change is published.
Last reviewed 2026-08-12.