ER – Cardiac Arrest

Discontinuation of heart beat.

The heart malfunctions and the heart stops beating
Absence of a beating heart means no blood is pumped to the brain, the lungs and kidneys. (Vital organs of life)
This will result in death within minutes with no treatment

What is the cause ?

An “electrical” problem with the heart resulting in an irregular and ineffective heartbeat. (This is known as an arrhythmia)
Many conditions can lead to this electrical abnormality

What does a person experiencing a cardiac arrest experience ?

Sudden unresponsiveness/unconsciousness will be seen
Abnormal breathing pattern: either not breathing at all, or having gasping respiratory efforts
No heartbeat or pulse when assessed at the wrist or neck region

What do you do, if you suspect a person is in cardiac arrest ?

Immediate actions (Done rapidly)

Seek help. Call or have someone contact emergency services immediately
Ensure the person experiencing the arrest is in a safe position
Make sure helpers do not crowd the scene or the person.
Check for responsiveness – call loudly to the person. Tap their shoulders to get a response, and check for a pulse or heartbeat
Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) right away if there is no response and no pulse
If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, follow the instruction and use it as soon as possible

How do I perform CPR ?

Place the patient onto their back and kneel beside them.
Place hands with palms on top of each other in the center of the patient’s chest.
Push down in repetitive motions no less than 2 inches, but allowing for full chest recoil.
Compress the chest at a rate of 100 beats per minute (You can compress to the rhythm of the song “Stayin Alive” by the Beegees).
Continue compressions until emergency services arrive or the patient resumes consciousness.

*Switch the compressor every 2 minutes to avoid fatigue.

**For infants 4 weeks to a year old

***For children age 1 to 12

SurefireCPR.com