Defib in a box

[xarr]

Don't know why that picture says call 999 if they are not breathing normally, 999 should always be called if someone is unconscious regardless of whether they breathing normally or not...

Because it is about when you call 999, in an unconscious, normally breathing person then you call 999 after they are in the recovery position (and then their airway is protected).

DR ABC

No more circulation, in DRABC C can now mean compressions.

Guidelines 2000 introduced the concept of checking for ‘signs of a circulation’. This change [i.e. removing the pulse check] was made because of the evidence that relying on a check of the carotid pulse to diagnose cardiac arrest is unreliable and time-consuming, mainly, but not exclusively, when attempted by non-healthcare professionals.

From here

 

[Hyburnate]

My bad, not done a first aid course for absolute years, probably 5 years

 

[BluBallz]

If you can hear, you can use an AED.

The minute you open the lid, instructions guide you through each step, from opening the packet containing the pads, to correct placement, timing of CPR along with breaths, and will advised you when analysing and if a shock is advised.

The whole idea of an AED is for use by a lay person to minimise the time between the steps in the chain of survival.

Ignore all the Resus council guidelines, JRCALC guidelines, etc. They're not aimed at the general public. These are meant so if someone drops down, you can get on the chest, bounce and blow, and provide a shock if necessary as quickly as possible until a clinician arrives.

 

[BluBallz]

Anyone know what an AED does with pulse present VT (but GCS 3/15) patient? I know it is rare and there is a high likelyhood of it degrading to pulseless VT/VF/PEA/Asystole but surely there are large risks with a non synchronised shock?

The Cardiac Science (and I believe ZOLL) AEDs will still read VT as a shockable rhythm depending on readings unfortunately so at that point it really does come down to the responder recognising signs of life.

 

[robfosters]

The Cardiac Science (and I believe ZOLL) AEDs will still read VT as a shockable rhythm depending on readings unfortunately so at that point it really does come down to the responder recognising signs of life.

My subcutaneous ICD recognises VT as a shockable rhythm. The internal ICD's try pacing the heart first before shocking.