CPR Resource Center
The most comprehensive library of emergency training resources — including videos, articles, downloads, and more.
Where Can I Download the AHA Algorithms?
What are Algorithms?
The American Heart Association (AHA) develops evidence-based guidelines that are used by healthcare providers for resuscitation of patients of all ages. The guidelines include AHA algorithms which provide a clear, systematic approach to the resuscitation process giving providers a consistent tool to use for each patient.
Every five years, the AHA Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) is published providing updates in lifesaving protocols in hospitals and emergency response services reflecting newest global resuscitation science and treatment recommendations.
How Does This Affect AHA CPR Training?
When these changes are published, the guidelines for BLS, ACLS, PALS, and Heartsaver training can change. For example, when the 2025 guidelines were released, the adult Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction algorithm was updated to include repeated cycles of 5 back blows (slaps) followed by 5 abdominal thrusts. This should be performed until the object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive.
HeartCode® online courses are updated at the time of ECC publication to reflect these recommendations. They almost immediately go live and are visible in the ebooks provided in the course. In-person education has a delay in roll-out from time of release.
Healthcare providers should stay aware of these five year releases and review the changes in treatment, even if they are not due to renew their CPR eCards.
Where to Download AHA Algorithms
The full ECC report can be found online in Circulation. The AHA includes PDF versions of the algorithms on their website, where they can be viewed, downloaded, and printed out. Physical versions of course books with additional information can be purchased here.
Renew Your AHA Certification with Code One
As an American Heart Association® Training Center, Code One offers nationally recognized CPR training courses, including BLS, ACLS, PALS, or Heartsaver courses. Learners utilize AHA’s HeartCode® courses, which includes course eBooks where the most updated algorithms are utilized throughout the training.