The most common rhythm in a sudden cardiac arrest event is Ventricular Fibrillation or VF. VF is an erratic heart beat that does not maintain effective circulation. A shock from a defibrillator can stop this abnormal rhythm and allow the heart to resume a normal rhythm, recommencing effective circulation. The earlier a Defibrillator is placed …
Commence CPR Immediately Commence CPR without delay if the casualty is found not to be breathing or is not breathing in an effective manner (respiratory rate and volume). If you are unsure, then it is better to commence CPR than to wait. There is no evidence of any damage being done to the heart by …
Once you have determined the need for medical assistance dial 000. If the incident occurs at work you may also have the option to activate any emergency button or siren at the time of the incident. It is important not to delay the arrival of professional medical assistance by starting CPR prior to making an …
Once you have cleared and opened the airway, place your hand on thediaphragm and your ear in front of the casualties mouth to “Look, Listenand Feel” for signs of breathing. Breathing can be identified by the following techniques: Feeling for breathing by placing your hand on the casualty’s diaphragm. Placing your ear next to the …
The next step is to ensure that air (more importantly Oxygen) is reaching the casualties lungs. To do this we follow two separate steps in succession: 1 Clear the Airway 2 Open the Airway Clearing the airway Open the airway and visually check inside the casualties mouth for any foreign bodies or excess fluid. …
The response step is essentially determining the level of consciousness of the casualty. If the casualty were conscious you would stop progressing at this point and discuss the situation with the casualty, prior to then sending for help if needed. An unconscious casualty is at most risk of breathing difficulties as they are unable to …
For the safety of yourself, others and the casualty, checking for danger must always be the first step in providing any form of response. Rushing in to an incident without a regard to safety can add to the number of casualties. Potential dangers surround us all the time. Regardless of where the incident occurs, there …
The primary survey is a mnemonic that steps out the procedures that should be followed in a medical emergency. It is a great way to remember the steps to follow in a medical emergency and can provide structure to the response when things are chaotic and the pressure is on. The Primary Survey is listed …
The internationally accepted response to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the Chain of Survival. The chain of survival is depicted below. Developed by the American Heart Association in 1990, the Chain of Survival has become the standard of care required for a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. First Responders are encouraged to follow this …
