Cardiac Arrest is an electrical problem in the heart, there are no symptoms to give any warning. It usually happens to the over 40’s but can happen at any time and anywhere. If cardiac arrest happens outside hospital it's highly likely that it will be fatal.
The main cause of cardiac arrest is Ventricular Fibrillation. This is an ineffectual activity/movement (arrhythmia) happening in the heart.
The ventricular action of the heart (the bottom part) pumps blood “out”, the left ventricle pumps (oxygenated) blood out to the body, heart and the brain. If it's not working properly these areas will not get the oxygen that they need and start to deteriorate and die, brain cells in about 4 to 6mins., body at 10% a minute, so . . . 10min - at best. Should cardiac arrest happen, response has to be immediate to give the best chance of survival. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) which is a very important part of treating cardiac arrest must be started while an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is sourced and put into action. This must be done while there is still electrical activity in the heart (ventricular fibrillation). An emergency call must be made to 999 and the correct information given.
It is then up to the AED to find the arrhythmia (usually, ventricular fibrillation) to be able to deliver a shock. An AED cannot start a stopped heart, there is no movement/activity for the AED to look for.
If this is not successful the AED will state: no shock advised, "Start/continue CPR if relevant". If this is advised and it is relevant, then start CPR. If no shock advised is stated, and check for pulse is advised, check for pulse and treat accordingly. This is done until the emergency service arrives. The AED will continue to monitor the casualty and give regular updates. If arrhythmia is found and the AED says “Shock advised”, then just follow the prompts.
It is now policy that anyone can use an AED, but AED and CPR training will give a better understanding of what you are doing and prepare you for what can happen (as above), and what can actually be done.
Also, being aware that a “Defibrillator” is not an “AED”. A Defibrillator is operated manually by a trained professional. An EAD is programmed and cannot work outside it’s programme.
Summary 70 - 80% of cardiac arrest cases occur in the home or public places. CPR significantly increases the chance of survival. Once the heart stops, blood flow stops. Consciousness is lost within 15 seconds. Breathing stops in 30 - 60 seconds. Brain cells follow after several mins.
Ventricular Tachycardia is a fast and shallow heartbeat that cannot pump blood. Ventricular Fibrillation is a chaotic attempt at a heartbeat that cannot pump blood.
Become fully aware of the issues of Cardiac Arrest and be able to work with CPR and an AED. Someone, somewhere might live because of your quick actions.
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