Basic resuscitation mnemonic

Reversible causes of cardiac arrest

The mnemonic

4 Hs and 4 Ts

What each word stands for

  • HypoxiaSecure airway and oxygenate
  • HypovolaemiaGive fluid or blood
  • Hypo/hyperkalaemia and metabolicCorrect electrolyte and acid–base disorders
  • HypothermiaRewarm
  • Tension pneumothoraxNeedle decompression
  • Tamponade (cardiac)Pericardiocentesis
  • ToxinsAntidote or supportive treatment
  • ThrombosisCoronary or pulmonary; thrombolysis or intervention

Why it matters clinically

A checklist to run during every pulseless arrest, especially PEA and asystole.

Where it stops being reliable

A prompt list, not a treatment algorithm; omits dosing and the shockable rhythm pathway.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Basic resuscitation mnemonic?

4 Hs and 4 Ts. It helps you recall: Reversible causes of cardiac arrest.

What does "Hypoxia" stand for?

Secure airway and oxygenate

What does "Hypovolaemia" stand for?

Give fluid or blood

What does "Hypo/hyperkalaemia and metabolic" stand for?

Correct electrolyte and acid–base disorders

What are all the parts of the 4 Hs and 4 Ts mnemonic?

Hypoxia: Secure airway and oxygenate; Hypovolaemia: Give fluid or blood; Hypo/hyperkalaemia and metabolic: Correct electrolyte and acid–base disorders; Hypothermia: Rewarm; Tension pneumothorax: Needle decompression; Tamponade (cardiac): Pericardiocentesis; Toxins: Antidote or supportive treatment; Thrombosis: Coronary or pulmonary; thrombolysis or intervention.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Basic resuscitation in Anaesthesia.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

A prompt list, not a treatment algorithm; omits dosing and the shockable rhythm pathway.

How is this useful clinically?

A checklist to run during every pulseless arrest, especially PEA and asystole.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Anaesthesia question about Basic resuscitation.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.