Chapter 17-Automated External Defibrilators Flashcards
What was developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s to analyze electrical signals from the heart?
A small computer
This computer determined when ventricular fibrillation (VF) was taking place.
What device can automatically administer an electrical shock to the heart when needed?
Automated portable defibrillator (AED)
This development was made possible by advancements in battery technology.
What is required from the operator when using an AED?
Turning on the machine and applying the pads
The operator must also push a button to deliver an electrical shock.
What type of technology do many AEDs use to guide the operator?
Computer voice synthesizer
This technology advises the operator on the steps to take based on the AED’s analysis.
What happens when an AED is turned on in certain models?
It starts analyzing the heart’s electrical rhythm
Some models require a button to initiate this analysis.
What term is used to describe all semiautomated defibrillators?
AED
The term AED is still used despite most defibrillators being semiautomated.
What is the main purpose of an AED?
To electrically stun the heart and allow it to resume normal function
This is achieved by delivering electrical energy from one pad to another.
What factors are involved in the defibrillation process?
- Voltage
- Current
- Impedance
These factors are crucial for delivering adequate energy for defibrillation.
What does impedance refer to in the context of AEDs?
Resistance of the body to the flow of electricity
AEDs adjust voltage based on impedance to deliver the proper amount of current.
True or False: Most AEDs are fully automatic.
False
All manufacturers are producing only semiautomated external defibrillators.
Fill in the blank: The amount of electricity delivered by AEDs varies among _______.
manufacturers
Each manufacturer has shown that the energy delivered is adequate to defibrillate the heart.
What is the primary function of an AED?
To recognize rhythms that require defibrillation, most commonly VF.
VF stands for Ventricular Fibrillation, a life-threatening heart rhythm.
How accurate are AEDs in recommending shocks?
Extremely accurate; rare for an AED to recommend a shock when not needed.
AEDs are designed to minimize false positives and ensure appropriate shock delivery.
What is one significant advantage of AEDs regarding treatment speed?
Delivers an electrical shock within 1 minute of arrival at the patient’s side.
Quick delivery of shocks is critical for survival in cases of VF.
What makes AEDs easy to operate?
They do not require ALS providers to be on the scene for definitive care.
This allows bystanders or first responders to use AEDs effectively.
What are the two additional advantages of current AEDs?
- Shock can be given through remote, adhesive pads
- Larger pad area for more efficient electricity transmission
Adhesive pads enhance safety and effectiveness compared to manual paddles.
What safety measures should be taken before using an AED?
Ensure the patient is not lying on wet ground or touching metal objects.
These precautions prevent electrical hazards during defibrillation.
Do all patients in cardiac arrest require an electrical shock?
No, some may have non-shockable rhythms like pulseless electrical activity and asystole.
These conditions indicate that defibrillation will not be effective.
What does asystole indicate?
No electrical activity remains; defibrillation will not help.
Asystole is often referred to as ‘flatline.’
What is pulseless electrical activity?
A state of cardiac arrest despite an organized electrical complex; defibrillation may worsen the situation.
CPR should be initiated in these cases as well.
What should be initiated as soon as possible in cases of non-shockable rhythms?
CPR, beginning with chest compressions.
Immediate CPR is crucial for maintaining blood flow and increasing survival chances.
