Automated External Defibrillator for Adults and Children Over 8 Years Old Flashcards
Early defibrillation is one of the key factors in survival for cardiac arrest caused by what two things?
1) Ventricular fibrillation
2) Pulseless ventricular tachycardia
What does PAD stand for? What does it mean?
Public Access Defibrillation; it means having trained rescuers and AED’s available in public places where lots of people gather.
What is an important factor in AED use that will increase the likelihood that the shock will be effective?
Minimizing the time between the last chest compression and shock delivery.
Arrhythmia caused by the lower chamber of the heart contracting at a very fast pace. In severe cases, no pulse can be detected.
Ventricular tachycardia
When the heart’s electrical activity becomes disordered and the heart stops pumping blood due to the heart muscles quivering in a fast, unsynchronized way.
Ventricular fibrillation (“arrest rhythm)
ROSC
Return of Spontaneous Circulation; when circulation returns and a pulse is palpable
What are the Universal Steps for Operating an AED?
1) Open the carrying case (and Power On if needed)
2) Attach AED pads to the victim’s chest
3) Clear the victim and allow the AED to analyze the rhythm. Make sure no one is touching the victim.
4) If the AED advises a shock, it will tell you to clear the victim. Shout “Clear the victim!,” be sure not one is touching her/him, then press the button to deliver the shock.
5) If no shock is needed, or after any shock, immediately resume chest compressions.
6) The AED will prompt you to repeat after 2 minutes.
When can you stop the chest compressions/AED cycle?
1) When advanced life support arrives.
2) When the victim begins to move, breathe, or otherwise react.
What are the two types of AED pad placement?
1) Anterolateral
2) Anteroposterior
Where should anterolateral pads be placed?
One just above the right breast, next to the shoulder (on the right pec muscle).
One under the left arm, on the side of the body just below the bottom of the left nipple.
Where should anteroposterior pads be placed?
One on the left front side of the body, just below the left nipple.
One on the back left side of the body, just below the shoulder blade and barely touching the spine.
Why should you not use child pads on an adult?
The shock delivered is too small; better to continue with chest compressions if no other option.
What should you do before using an AED if a victim is covered wet?
Dry the area where the pads will go?
What should you do if the patient has an implantable defibrillator or pacemaker?
Use the AED, but, if possible, do not place the pads directly over the implanted device.
What should you do if a patient has a transdermal medication pouch?
Use the AED, but do not place the pads on top of the pouch. If possible, remove the patch and wipe the area.
