Paramedic Recert EMS Care | 23-MCIT-F3-4107 | Cardiac Arrest Part A  starts with the introduction to the topic.

With 436,000 people dying from Cardiac Arrest each year. cardia arrests causes about the half the deaths linked with heart attack and stroke. This chapter discusses factors influencing survival in out-of-hospital settings, delves into the chain of survival and also details out the pathophysiology and management of a cardiac arrest. The chapter also covers AHA guidelines and pregnant patients.

The lessons covered in Part A

• Lesson 1:  OOH Cardiac Arrest Survival – Influencing Factors
• Lesson 2:  Chain Of Survival
• Lesson 3:  Pathophysiology Of Cardiac Arrest
• Lesson 4:  Management Of Cardiac Arrest
• Lesson 5:  Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 1
• Lesson 6:  Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 2

The lessons covered in Part B

• Lesson 7:  Pregnant Patients.
• Lesson 8:  Algorithms.
• Lesson 9:  AHA Guidelines Part 1. and,
• Lesson 10:AHA Guidelines Part 2.

Excerpt Paramedic Recert EMS Care | 23-MCIT-F3-4107 | Cardiac Arrest Part A 

Early defibrillation includes the provision of electrical shock to the heart to reestablish a normal, spontaneous heart rhythm. Several options for rapid defibrillation exist, including automated external, semi-automated external, or manual defibrillators.

 When an AED is available, the rescuer should position the device next to the patient, turn it on, and follow visual and voice prompts. They should then attach the electrode pads to the victim’s bare chest, as shown in the diagram on the pads. If a shock is advised, the rescuer should be sure no one is touching the victim and press the shock button.

Notes

 The device will instruct the rescuer to press the shock button if a shock is needed. In fully automatic devices, the shock will be delivered automatically.

AEDs are designed for use by untrained laypersons. They are safe, effective, and intuitive devices that will not shock a victim unless a shock is needed to restore a normal heartbeat. They cannot harm the victim.

AEDs are safe for use with children. If the child is aged 1-8 and a pediatric dose-attenuator is available, the rescuer should use it. If this adapter is unavailable, the rescuer should use a standard AED.

 The two remaining links in the Chain of Survival refer to actions professional responders should take. They include advanced life support and integrated post-cardiac arrest care.