19. Heart Problems/AICD - ACD Flashcards
Instruction for Taking a Pulse
(verbatim) Okay now, find the Adam’s apple on their neck. Use two fingers to feel on either side of it for a pulse. Tell me when you’ve found it. (Pulse detected) Count each beat out loud so I can time you, starting now.
≤ 12 = < 50bpm
≥ 33 = ≥ 130bpm
DIFFICULTY SPEAKING BETWEEN BREATHS
Changing Colour
Automatic Implanted(Internal) Cardiac Defibrillator (A.I.C.D)
Device designed to administer an electric shock to control tachyarrhythmias (rapid heart rate) and restore a normal heartbeat
Rule 1
Caller should be directed to take a pulse whenever it is physically possible (age, location, comprehension)
Rule 2
If patient has slow or very rapid heart rate, paramedics (ALS) should be sent
Rule 3
A.I.C.Ds are becoming more common. Single firing may be normal; however, multiple firings or firings associated w/ priority symptoms may indicate prehospital emergency. ALS evaluation for patients is recommended.
Rule 4
If caller asks whether patient should be given medication now, EMD should only give instructions included in protocol.
Axiom 1
Heart problems are considered specific diagnosis. Heart problem situations range from old rheumatic fever, through benign forms of congestive heart failure, to acute angina or serious heart attack. “Heart problems” are occasionally reported as CC in cardiac arrest.
Axiom 2
Complaints such as cancer, leukemia, chronic illness, stroke, dehydration, infection, meningitis, etc. may incorrectly elicit an emotional repsonse from EMDs since these diagnosis-based terms sound serious. Caller’s diagnosis may have nothing to do with the actual reason the patient needs help now.
Axiom 3
Automated external defibrillators might also be called “shock boxes”
Heart Attack Symptoms
- Aching pain
- Chest pain/discomfort (now gone)
- Constricting band
- Crushing discomfort
- Heaviness
- Numbness
- Pressure
- Tightness
While these symptoms are most common in chest, they may also (or only) be present in arm, jaw, neck or upper back.
