Facts About Cardiac Arrests That Could Save a Life

Cardiac arrests are seen as one of the biggest cause of deaths worldwide. In the U.K alone 140,00 die on average as a result of a cardiac arrest each year. Yet, with the help of a defibrillator, you are 75% more likely to survive. So why aren’t we doing something about it?

A cardiac arrest occurs when the victim's blood stops circulating properly as a result of the heart beating abnormally. They can happen to anyone, at any time and at any age. You do not need to have previous heart problems.

Chances of survival from a cardiac arrest in the UK is 5%, and as stated before if a defibrillator is used within the first 5 minutes they sufferers chance of survival increases to 75%.

The only way to save a person from a cardiac arrest is to use a Defib device (AEB). What this does is it shocks the heart and resets the rhythm back to its normal state, like the human version of turning a computer off and on again.

There are two types of Defib device these are semi and fully automatic AEDs.

What Semi and Fully-Automatic AEDs Have in Common

Although semi and fully automatic have differences there are a lot of similarities. Both require the person administering the shock to apply the pads to the patient. Nobody else should be touching the patient when either of them applies the shock. Neither device will deliver a shock unless they detect a shockable rhythm in the heartbeat. Both provide a lifesaving shock to a sufferer of a cardiac arrest.

Benefits of a Semi-Automatic AED

The biggest benefit of a semi-auto Defib device is it provides the rescuer control over applying the shock e.g. allowing you to make sure no one is touching the victim, as the shock can connect with anyone in contact with the patient.

There are two main things needing to be done when using a semi-automatic Defib device.

1. Ensure that everyone is clear and not touching the victim.
2. Push the shock button

Benefits of a Fully-Automatic AED

Unlike the semi-auto Defib device, the electrode’s only need to be applied. The automatic machine will then give the shock to the victim when needed. This is beneficial as it can give the rescuer a chance to perform CPR and gives forewarning of when to stop delivering CPR so it can shock the victim.

It is such an important piece of equipment with such a simple use. The more awareness made with regards to this product and it’s uses the closer we get to tackling this massive issue. Take a look at our various semi and fully automatic AED machines two of which have been CU Medical recommended by the British Heart Foundation: