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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Shockable Rhythm: Understanding Its Importance in Cardiac Arrest
Introduction
A shockable rhythm is a type of life-threatening heart rhythm that can be treated with an electric shock (defibrillation). Recognizing and treating a shockable rhythm promptly is critical in saving lives during cardiac arrest.
Types of Shockable Rhythms
There are two main shockable rhythms: 1. Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) – A chaotic and uncoordinated electrical activity in the heart, leading to ineffective contractions. 2. Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) – A very fast heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, preventing proper heart function and circulation.
How Defibrillation Works
Defibrillation is the process of delivering a controlled electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. It is the most effective treatment for VF and pulseless VT. The shock stops the chaotic activity and allows the heart’s normal electrical system to take over.
Recognizing the Need for Defibrillation
A defibrillator (AED in public settings) should be used if: - The person is unresponsive. - There is no pulse or signs of circulation. - The heart rhythm is confirmed as VF or pulseless VT using an ECG or AED analysis.
Role of CPR
Before and after defibrillation, high-quality CPR (chest compressions and rescue breaths) is crucial for maintaining some blood flow and increasing the success rate of defibrillation.
Summary
In emergencies, identifying a shockable rhythm and administering defibrillation as soon as possible can significantly improve survival chances. Early recognition, defibrillation, and continued CPR form the key chain of survival in cardiac arrest cases.
References
- Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public places can save lives.
- Prompt CPR and defibrillation can increase survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2020-aha-guidelines-for-cpr-and-ecc
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001194
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33081530/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000918
2. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines
- https://cprguidelines.eu/guidelines-2021
- https://www.erc.edu/
- https://cprguidelines.eu/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300957221000551
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33773835/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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