I definitely like the algorithm approach of this course more than the PALS. Some things have seriously got to go, though. Most META-analysis studies are now against using cricoid pressure and therapeutic hypothermia, so a book published 18 months ago should have stopped suggesting harmful treatments.

However, I much prefer the 3-1 CPR + treat cause of respiratory failure + worry about circulation management later approach. PALS is fine for cases where the asystole is from a heart arrhythmia or other cause. But I find it too conflicting regarding verifying the return of circulation. Tries to emulate ACLS, but it nonsensically forbids the most basic clinical criteria of checking the pulse. I found that part of the course to be beyond confusing, and I hope the next PALS update takes the good things about the NRP, makes a clear-cut distinction, and separates CPR goals of NRT and ACLS style instead of making it too complicated for everyday use.

The chapters are good, insanely fast to read, and also explain how to perform an umbilical cord dissection and initial CPAP ventilator preparation, making this course quite useful for healthcare workers that treat neonate patients without being pediatricians per se. It also doesn't get overly nitty-gritty with the NICU causes of asystole. Most of the focus of this manual is on the first 1-6 hours of life.

I wish it mentioned using video laryngoscope and other sensible treatment plans in this age population. Hard to believe it promotes cricoid pressure and not SALAD technique or routine availability of gum elastic bougies. It astounds me that cheap and safe adjunct procedures that have proven to save lives are still not integrated into the algorithm. I really hope future editions take these considerations in mind.

Otherwise, I enjoyed the book, hope to do well in the course and encourage other readers to give this book a chance. Well worth the read despite my handful of complaints.

4 1/2 stars! ( )