Questions and Answers
What is Ventricular fibrillation (v-fib)?
Most common abnormal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest in adults; the organized wave of electrical impulses is lost.
What is ventricular tachycardia (v-tach)?
Heart beats too fast to pump blood.
What is an AED?
An electronic device that analyzes the heart rhythm, delivers an electric shock if necessary, and corrects one of the abnormal electrical disturbances.
How do AEDs determine whether a shock should be delivered or not?
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What are common elements of an AED?
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When do you use an AED?
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What are some special considerations when using an AED?
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Study Notes
Ventricular Fibrillation (v-fib)
- Most prevalent arrhythmia causing sudden cardiac arrest in adults.
- Characterized by a loss of organized electrical impulses, leading to ineffective heart function.
Ventricular Tachycardia (v-tach)
- Occurs when the heart beats excessively fast, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively.
Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
- A portable electronic device designed to assess and treat abnormal heart rhythms.
- It analyzes the heart’s rhythm and delivers an electric shock when necessary to restore normal function.
AED Rhythm Analysis
- Equipped with a built-in system to assess whether a shock is required.
- Records essential data, including the victim's heart rhythm and shock history for further analysis.
Common Features of an AED
- Basic operations include an on/off switch.
- Components consist of cables, pads for shock delivery, analysis and defibrillation capabilities, auditory prompts for user guidance, and battery-powered operation.
When to Use an AED
- Use exclusively when the victim is unresponsive and not breathing, indicating potential cardiac arrest.
Special Considerations for AED Use
- Ensure the victim is free from water; dry the chest and remove from wet surfaces to prevent shock failure.
- Pediatric-specific pads may be available for use on children.
- Remove any medical patches before applying pads to ensure proper function.
- Be mindful of implanted devices like pacemakers or defibrillators, avoiding pad placement over these areas.
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Description
Test your knowledge on critical heart rhythms and AED usage with these flashcards. This quiz covers important definitions, including ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, and the role of AEDs in cardiac emergencies. Perfect for anyone looking to increase their understanding of emergency medical procedures.
