Questions and Answers
What is an AED?
What is the purpose of a shock from an AED?
To stop the abnormal rhythm and allow the heart's normal rhythm to return.
Match the following public access defibrillation locations:
Airports = Public access defibrillation example Sport facilities = Public access defibrillation example Shopping malls = Public access defibrillation example Healthcare facilities = Public access defibrillation example
How are communities and businesses encouraged to participate in local PAD programs?
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Some examples of how to properly maintain an AED include battery replacement and _____.
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When the AED first arrives, why is it ideal to place it at the victim's side?
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What is the importance of minimizing the time between the last compression and shock delivery?
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What is an arrhythmia?
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When do arrhythmias occur?
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What are the two types of life-threatening arrhythmias that cause cardiac arrest?
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What is pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT)?
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What is ventricular fibrillation (VF)?
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What does the AED do when pVT or VF is detected?
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What do the following abbreviations stand for?
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What are the universal steps for operating an AED?
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Study Notes
AED Overview
- An automatic external defibrillator (AED) is portable, lightweight, and computerized.
- It detects abnormal heart rhythms, primarily ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, which require an electrical shock.
AED Functionality
- AEDs deliver electrical shocks to restore normal heart rhythm when an abnormal rhythm is detected.
Public Access Defibrillation (PAD)
- PAD aims to have trained personnel and AEDs readily available in public areas where cardiac arrests are likely.
- Common locations for PAD include airports, sport facilities, offices, and healthcare facilities.
Community Involvement in PAD
- Communities are encouraged to register AEDs with local EMS agencies and ensure medical oversight for quality control.
- All expected rescuers should receive training in CPR and AED use.
AED Maintenance
- Regular maintenance includes battery replacement and calibration/testing of energy doses.
- Supplies like AED pads, including pediatric pads, and emergency equipment need timely replacement.
AED Placement
- Positioning the AED next to the rescuer operating it facilitates quick access to controls and pad placement.
- This setup allows another rescuer to perform CPR effectively without obstructing AED use.
Timing of Shock Delivery
- Minimizing the gap between last chest compression and shock delivery significantly increases the chance of restoring a normal heart rhythm.
Understanding Arrhythmias
- An arrhythmia is defined as an irregular or abnormal heartbeat resulting from improper electrical impulse timing.
- Arrhythmias can be too fast, too slow, or erratic.
Life-Threatening Arrhythmias
- The two critical arrhythmias leading to cardiac arrest are pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF).
Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (pVT)
- pVT occurs when the heart's ventricles contract excessively fast, leading to a lack of detectable pulse and oxygen supply to vital organs.
Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)
- VF is characterized by disordered electrical activity, causing the heart muscle to quiver without effective blood pumping.
AED Response to pVT and VF
- Upon detecting pVT or VF, the AED prompts for an electrical shock, which temporarily stuns the heart muscle.
- This shock can stop the arrhythmia and reset the heart's electrical activity, allowing normal rhythm to resume.
- If circulation returns, it's referred to as return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).
Important Abbreviations
- ROSC: Return Of Spontaneous Circulation
- pVT: Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia
- VF: Ventricular Fibrillation
- AED: Automatic External Defibrillator
Operating an AED
- Universal steps for AED operation include opening the carrying case and powering on the device as needed.
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Description
Test your knowledge of CPR concepts through these flashcards from Chapter 3. Learn about important life-saving devices like the AED and their functions in emergencies. Perfect for anyone studying CPR or first aid.