UPDATES IN PEDIATRIC CARDIAC ARREST RESUSCITATION BASED ON THE 2025 AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION (AHA) GUIDELINES
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Abstract
Pediatric cardiac arrest is a critical emergency associated with high mortality and significant neurological morbidity. Unlike adults, pediatric cardiac arrest commonly occurs secondary to progressive respiratory failure or shock; therefore, early recognition and timely intervention before complete circulatory collapse are particularly important. This review summarizes the key updates in the 2025 American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care in children and discusses their practical implications. The updated guidelines emphasize a systems-based approach and a unified chain of survival, ranging from early recognition and initial stabilization to high-quality resuscitation and post–cardiac arrest care. High-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation with minimization of chest compression interruptions to less than 10 seconds remains the cornerstone for improving organ perfusion and neurological recovery. In addition, the “stay and play” resuscitation strategy and the development of multidisciplinary resuscitation teams are highlighted as key factors for improving survival and long-term neurological outcomes in pediatric patients.
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Keywords
pediatric cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, AHA 2025
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