What Information Should People Know About Defibrillators?
Emergencies happen, and other scenarios can become worse than the majority. However, when people call for help during a cardiac arrest, emergency responders usually shout "Clear!" and try to save the suffering patient.
However, nobody knows how defibrillators work aside from medical professionals. But aside from having to shout "Clear!" before delivering a life-saving electrical charge, what else should people know about defibrillators? Here are some ideas.
1. Corrects Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia is a heart condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly or too fast. It can cause shortness of breath and chest pain and can be fatal. There are two arrhythmia types, tachycardia and bradycardia—faster and slower heartbeat, respectively.
When someone experiences arrhythmia, they may have a heart attack. If they have a heart attack, they can have cardiac arrest. A defibrillator sends an electrical shock to the heart to make it beat properly. Medical professionals can use it to save someone's life.
2. Safe to Use on Children
A defibrillator is a life-saving device that can restart a person's heart if it has stopped. Defibrillators are safe for children, but it is essential to follow the instructions for properly using the device on a child. However, wait for medical professionals and allow them to use defibrillators on children.
Using a defibrillator on a child is similar to using the device on an adult. The main difference is that the pads placed on the child's chest are smaller. It is essential to put the pads in the correct position on the child's chest to deliver the electrical shock properly.
3. Never Forget CPR
CPR is an essential life-saving skill that everyone should know. It is necessary to remember that people should use it with a defibrillator. Using a defibrillator without performing CPR will not restart a person's heart.
If you see someone who appears to be in cardiac arrest, don't hesitate to start CPR. Performing CPR can be daunting, but it is a simple procedure that anyone can learn. Many resources are available to help you learn CPR, and it is well worth the effort to learn this life-saving skill.
Types of Defibrillators
Defibrillators come in a variety of types, and each has its unique features and benefits. The kind of defibrillator you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. However, the most common defibrillator types are AED, ICD, and WCD.
a. Automated External Defibrillator
An AED is a portable defibrillator that is easy to use. It is often found in public places like airports, malls, and schools. AEDs can be used by anyone, even those with no medical training. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them a good choice for those on a budget.
b. Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator
An ICD is a device that is surgically implanted under the skin. It is usually reserved for people at a high risk of sudden cardiac death. ICDs are more expensive than AEDs, but they are more effective in preventing sudden cardiac death.
c. Wearable Cardioverter-Defibrillator
A WCD is a wearable defibrillator that is worn around the waist. It is often used by people with a high risk of sudden cardiac death but cannot have an ICD implanted. WCDs are less expensive than ICDs but are not as effective in preventing sudden cardiac death.
Conclusion
Defibrillators are much more than how the media portrays them in movies and TV shows. They are devices that deliver a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to the heart muscle, used to revive a person in cardiac arrest or to correct a heart rhythm that is not working correctly.
Defibrillators are essential to the medical landscape and have saved countless lives. If you or someone you know has a heart condition, talk to your doctor about whether or not a defibrillator is suitable for you.
Restart the Heart is Australia’s leading provider of defibrillator supplies. We provide healthcare institutions with home pads and replacement batteries, first aid kits, and defibrillator units to assist them in caring for needy patients. Never go into battle without having the complete gear at hand. Shop on our website today or contact us for maintenance and supplies.