Cardiopulmonary Arrest: Causes, Symptoms, and Emergency Response

Introduction

Cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) is a life-threatening condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, and breathing ceases. This leads to an absence of blood circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs, especially the brain. Without immediate intervention, death can occur within minutes.

Causes

CPA can occur due to various underlying conditions, including: - Cardiac Causes: - Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) - Arrhythmias (ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia) - Heart failure - Congenital heart disease - Respiratory Causes: - Severe asthma - Pulmonary embolism - Respiratory failure (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia) - Other Causes: - Trauma (severe bleeding, head injury) - Drug overdose (opioids, sedatives) - Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, magnesium abnormalities)

Symptoms

Since cardiopulmonary arrest occurs suddenly, recognizing the early warning signs is crucial: - Loss of consciousness - No pulse or heartbeat detectable - Absent or irregular breathing - Blue or pale skin due to lack of oxygen - Dilated pupils

Emergency Response: Basic Life Support (BLS)

Immediate intervention can save a life. Follow these steps:

1. Check Responsiveness

• Tap the person and ask loudly, "Are you okay?"
• If no response, call for emergency help immediately (911 in the U.S., 112 in Europe).

2. Assess Breathing and Pulse

• Tilt the head back and check for normal breathing.
• Feel for a pulse at the carotid artery (neck).
• If no normal breathing and no pulse, begin CPR immediately.

3. Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

• Chest Compressions:
  • Place hands in the center of the chest and compress hard and fast (depth of at least 5 cm, rate of 100-120 compressions per minute).
  • Allow full recoil between compressions.
• Rescue Breaths:
  • Give two effective breaths after every 30 compressions.
  • Ensure chest rises with each breath.

4. Apply an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

• If an AED is available, turn it on and follow the instructions.
• Deliver a shock if advised by the device.
• Continue CPR until emergency medical personnel arrive.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of cardiopulmonary arrest: - Manage chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease). - Lead a healthy lifestyle (avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly). - Monitor and treat arrhythmias and other cardiovascular disorders. - Learn basic CPR training to be prepared for emergencies.

Conclusion

Cardiopulmonary arrest is a critical condition that requires immediate action. Knowing how to respond with CPR and defibrillation can save lives. Encourage your family and community to learn CPR and recognize cardiac emergencies.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

1. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
2. https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2020-aha-guidelines-for-cpr-and-ecc
3. https://cpr.heart.org/en/
4. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001194
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33081529/

2. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines on Advanced Life Support

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33773825/
2. https://cprguidelines.eu/assets/guidelines/European-Resuscitation-Council-Guidelines-2021-Ad.pdf
3. https://www.resuscitationjournal.com/article/S0300-9572(21)00063-0/fulltext
4. https://cprguidelines.eu/guidelines-2021
5. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300957215003287