Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

Cardiovascular Emergencies, CPR and AED

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Cardiac Arrest Cardiac arrest is the complete lack of electrical activity or the complete lack of effective mechanical (pumping) activity in the heart. It can be caused by: • A lack of oxygen, either through disease or accident such as suffocation/drowning or inhalation injury. • Disease, such as ischemia or a blood clot. • A damaged brain or central nervous system. • Severe blood loss (shock) where there is not enough volume to sustain cardiac function. • Traumatic injury, electrical shock. • Poisoning and drug overdose. As discussed, when the heart stops pumping, both the heart and the brain cease to receive the oxygen and nutrients they require. Damage begins occurring within minutes and permanent disability or death are certain without quick intervention.

A patient with an altered level of consciousness may not be able to protect their own airway. Never give oral medication, food, or liquids to these patients.

Altered Level of Consciousness

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