Early defibrillation is a link in the adult Chain of Survival. Why is this important to survival? A. It prevents respiratory arrest. B. It prevents cardiac arrest. C. It provides normal respiration. D. It eliminates the abnormal heart rhythm. What cial circumstance should a rescuer consider when using an AED?
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: D. It eliminates the abnormal heart rhythm.
Explanation:
Early defibrillation is a critical link in the adult Chain of Survival because it directly addresses the root cause of many sudden cardiac arrests—an abnormal heart rhythm known as ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT). These abnormal rhythms prevent the heart from effectively pumping blood to the brain and other vital organs. Defibrillation delivers an electric shock to the heart, which can stop the abnormal rhythm and allow the heart’s normal rhythm to resume. Prompt defibrillation significantly increases the chances of survival and reduces brain damage by restoring effective circulation as quickly as possible.
When cardiac arrest occurs, the heart is often in VF or pulseless VT, which are shockable rhythms. If defibrillation is delayed, these rhythms deteriorate into asystole, a state where the heart shows no electrical activity and cannot be shocked back to a normal rhythm. Therefore, the sooner defibrillation is performed, the higher the likelihood of restoring a viable heartbeat.
Special circumstances a rescuer should consider when using an AED:
- Environment: The rescuer should ensure the patient and the area are dry and not in contact with water. Using an AED on a wet surface or a wet patient can be dangerous because electricity could be conducted to the rescuer or bystanders.
- Metal surfaces: If the patient is lying on a metal surface, the rescuer should try to move the patient to a non-conductive surface if possible to avoid unintended electrical conduction.
- Medication patches: If the patient has a medication patch on the chest where pads will be placed, the patch should be removed carefully before applying AED pads to avoid burns or interference with the shock.
- Implanted devices: Presence of pacemakers or implanted defibrillators does not prevent the use of AED, but pads should not be placed directly over the implanted device to avoid ineffective shocks or damage.
- Children: Some AEDs have pediatric settings or pads that reduce shock energy for use in children; rescuers should use these when available.
Considering these factors helps ensure safe and effective use of the AED, maximizing the chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest.