If you use a defibrillator before the ambulance arrives, you can save someone’s life. Learn how to use it the right way.
Defibrillators are life-saving devices used in hospitals when treating patients in cardiac arrest.
They are very important in restoring the heart’s normal rhythm by delivering controlled electrical shocks to the heart.
While defibrillators may appear daunting, knowing the right way to use can spell the thin line of difference between life and death within a hospital environment.
Table of contents
- What is a Defibrillator?
- What Types of Defibrillators in Hospitals?
- How Defibrillator Works?
- Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Defibrillator in a Hospital
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Defibrillator in Hospital
- The Future of Defibrillators in Hospital Settings
- Why you Should Buy AED From BuyAEDIndia?
- Conclusion
- FAQ
What is a Defibrillator?
A defibrillator is a medical device invented to restore the normal heartbeat when abnormal rhythms, or arrhythmias, occur and during sudden cardiac arrest.
There are Various types of defibrillators used in hospitals each type has its own distinctive characteristics and applications.
What Types of Defibrillators in Hospitals?
1. Automated External Defibrillator (AED):
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is the most user-friendly defibrillator, often found in public places and used in emergencies.
In hospitals, it’s also utilized for quick action by non-specialist staff. It automatically analyzes the patient’s heart rhythm and instructs whether a shock is needed.
2. Manual Defibrillator:
This type is typically used by trained healthcare professionals. It allows greater control over the shock’s intensity and timing, making it ideal for more complicated medical environments.
3. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD):
An ICD is a device surgically implanted in patients at high risk of cardiac arrest.
It continuously monitors the heart and automatically delivers shocks when necessary.
Though not manually used in emergencies, ICDs are crucial in long-term patient care.
How Defibrillator Works?
1. The Role of Electricity in Defibrillation:
Defibrillation works by delivering a dose of electrical current to the heart.
This current interrupt the chaotic electrical activity of the arrhythmia and allows the heart to reset to a normal rhythm.
2. The Importance of Timing:
When the heart of a person stops, time is critical.
Defibrillation should be made as soon as possible, or at least within 3 to 5 minutes.
This gives a hint that health professionals must know the use of a defibrillator.
Learn more: Best Affordable AED for Home (Top Picks by Cardiologist)
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Defibrillator in a Hospital
Step 1: Assess the Patient’s Condition:
Before charging the defibrillator, quickly assess if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing.
If the patient is in cardiac arrest, immediate action must be taken in order to proceed with the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Defibrillator:
If you’re using an AED, turn it on, and follow the voice prompts.
For manual defibrillators, healthcare providers should select the appropriate energy level based on the situation.
Step 3: Place the Pads Correctly:
Place the defibrillator pads on the patient’s bare chest.
One pad should go on the upper right side of the chest, just below the collarbone.
The other pad should be placed on the lower left side, a few inches below the armpit.
Step 4: Analyze the Heart Rhythm:
If automated, the machine analyzes the heart’s rhythm and recommends whether a shock is needed.
In manual defibrillators, health care professionals will have to interpret the ECG reading for further action.
Step 5: Deliver the Shock:
For AEDs, if a shock is advised, press the flashing button to deliver it. Ensure no one is touching the patient to avoid injury.
For manual defibrillators, healthcare staff will adjust the shock settings and deliver the electrical current.
Step 6: Post-Shock Care:
After delivering the shock, reassess the patient’s condition. Continue CPR if necessary and monitor the patient’s heart rhythm.
If required, deliver additional shocks as instructed by the defibrillator or healthcare protocols.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Defibrillator in Hospital
Using a defibrillator in a stressful hospital environment can lead to mistakes.
Ensure that the pads are correctly placed and make sure no one is touching the patient during the shock.
Another common error is waiting too long to use the defibrillator.
Immediate action can save a life.
Safety Precautions for Using Defibrillators in Hospitals
Defibrillators are powerful devices, so safety is essential.
Always check for water or conductive materials around the patient.
Ensure everyone stands clear when delivering a shock to avoid unintentional injuries.
The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Defibrillation
While an AED can be operated by anyone that is trained, the expertise of health professionals is required to operate manual defibrillators.
Doctors and nurses in hospitals receive advanced training in the use of manual defibrillators and the management of all the more complicated cardiac emergencies.
The Future of Defibrillators in Hospital Settings
Because of technological development, defibrillators are constantly upgraded.
Newer models are increasingly intuitive: they provide real-time feedback during CPR and may even automatically adjust the intensity of the shock.
And these innovations will go on to further improve hospital outcomes for patients.
Why you Should Buy AED From BuyAEDIndia?
When it comes to lifesaving equipment, like Automated External Defibrillators, the quality and reliability just cannot be compromised.
Though there are quite a few options available in India, the leading provider is BuyAEDIndia due to several important reasons.
Be it equipping your hospital, corporate office, or even your home, BuyAEDIndia can surely help you out with nothing but the best AEDs at competitive prices.
Let me get into the reasons why you’re going to want to buy your AED from BuyAEDIndia.
1. Trusted by Experts:
BuyAEDIndia is trusted by hospitals, clinics, and professionals across India for high-quality AEDs.
2. Top Brands Available:
We deal in AEDs from the best brands like Philips, Zoll, Cardiac Science, and Defibtech ensuring top-notch reliability and performance.
3. Certified Quality:
All AEDs are certified to meet strict safety and performance standards, so you can rely on them during an emergency.
4. Reasonable Price:
BuyAEDIndia comes with competitive pricing that helps make lifesaving AEDs accessible to one and all.
5. Expert Help:
Not sure which AED to choose? Their team is ready with expert advice to guide you in choosing the right one.
6. Excellent After-Sales Support:
From maintenance to training, BuyAEDIndia ensures full support even after your purchase.
7. Fast Nationwide Delivery:
Wherever you may be in India, your AED will reach you fast and safe.
Buy your AED with BuyAEDIndia for reliable devices, professional advice, and a great service!
Explore more: Latest Automated External Defibrillator Price in India
Conclusion
A hospital defibrillator is a lifesaving skill that health professionals must be able to handle with delicacy.
From patient assessment to administering the correct shock, proper utilization of the device can raise the survival rates in cardiac emergencies exponentially.
The best practice for patients requiring this will follow the steps to take, common mistakes, and safety precautions.
FAQ
There should be no delay between analyzing the heart rhythm and delivering the shock. Immediate shocks are vital for patient survival.
No, manual defibrillators should only be used by trained healthcare professionals due to the need for precise control over shock settings.
Yes, defibrillators can be safely used on pregnant women experiencing cardiac arrest. The priority is to save the mother’s life.
Incorrect pad placement can reduce the effectiveness of the shock. Always follow the pad placement guide for optimal results.
While defibrillators significantly improve the chances of survival, they are not 100% effective. Outcomes depend on timing, the patient’s condition, and other factors.