Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

5 Cardiovascular Emergencies, CPR and AED

Congestive Heart Failure and Pulmonary Edema Assessment and First Aid Scene Assessment - Scene Safety Activate 911 / Get Help / Get First Aid Kit / Get AED Primary Assessment • Assess patient history and vital signs • Have the patient stop any activity • Position patient for comfort, loosen tight clothing around neck, chest and waist. • Assist the patient to take any prescribed medication • Have the patient chew and swallow an ASA tablet Ongoing Care/Transport • Provide care for shock • Monitor patient’s airway and breathing • Be prepared to provide CPR if breathing becomes ineffective or ceases Hand-Off and Documentation ABC’s - Treat Life Threats Secondary Assessment

Signs and Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure and Pulmonary Edema • Shortness of breath, even with the mildest activity. • Difficulty breathing when supine. Needs to be in a semi reclined position. • Use of accessory muscles to breathe. • Swelling, common in the feet, ankles and legs. • Wet cough. Signs and Symptoms of Severe Pulmonary Edema • Cyanosis. • Frothy, pink saliva. • Severe shortness of breath/difficulty breathing.

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