Human life is the most precious asset; sometimes, having the proper knowledge and skills can save lives. Knowing the basics of first aid to assist casualties is important before professional medical help arrives. With basic first aid, having a working knowledge of some rescue techniques comes in handy in times of need. Skills like CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and operating a useful shocking device can save the lives of someone’s loved ones.
This article is a complete guide to magical equipment: defibrillators by keeping the importance of life-saving techniques in mind. It talks about the device, why it is essential sometimes, how to operate it, and more.
The Basics: What is This Device?
A defibrillator sends an electric shock to the body to restore a normal heartbeat. It allows the heart to produce a normal heartbeat in case of arrhythmias. An arrhythmia is the irregular beating of the heart. It can cause an extremely fast or slow heartbeat, depending on the type of arrhythmia. In severe cases, arrhythmias can be fatal. Using this device helps in cases of emergency when the arrhythmia is extreme.
They can detect the heartbeat and determine the intensity of the electric shock required. Hence, these machines are helpful in cases of cardiac arrest. Any ordinary individual can use these machines to restore the patient’s heartbeat and increase their chances of survival.
How Do They Work?
There are three different types of defibrillators, namely AED (Automated External), ICD (Implantable Cardioverter), and WCD (Wearable Cardioverter). All three varieties have different working mechanisms and are optimal in different scenarios. As AEDs are life savers in case of emergencies, this article discusses the purpose and working of AEDs.
AEDs
How Do They Work?
An AED is portable and lightweight to assist in case of emergencies. It is battery-operated and new-user-friendly. These devices check the heart’s rhythm and send an electric shock accordingly.
An AED has sticky pads that are attached to the patient’s chest. These sticky pads have electrodes that help detect the rhythm of the patient’s heart. Once the machine detects the heartbeat, it analyses the need for an electric shock. The device delivers an electric shock if the patient needs it.
How to Use Them
One does not need to be a medical health professional to be able to operate this device. The machine gives voice commands to help you assist the person in need and is beginner-friendly. Follow these steps to help a person suffering from a cardiac arrest:
- Turn on the device and follow the voice commands.
- Remove the clothing that covers the patient’s chest. If necessary and possible, wipe their chest so that the machine has a dry surface to work on.
- Place one of the sticky pads on the lower left side of the chest, just some inches below the armpit.
- Place the other sticky pad on the upper right side of the patient’s chest.
- Plug the connecting cable into the AED machine.
- Wait for the device to analyse the person’s heartbeat. Ensure that nobody is touching the patient.
- Press the button to send the shock wave if the machine needs a shock. Again ensure that nobody is touching the person in need.
- Start CPR immediately after the AED administers the required electric shock.
In Conclusion
Defibrillators are life-saving machines that can help a person in need when used correctly. They are effortless to use and do not require the presence of a medical health professional. With all this said, a heart patient may still need professional help. It is advised to call for emergency medical help even after using the device.
