3-12. UNMONITORED CARDIAC ARREST
Unmonitored cardiac arrest is cardiac arrest that occurs when the patient is not
being monitored. Additionally, a defibrillator is not immediately available. Follow this
procedure:
a. Initiate basic cardiac life support while a monitor defibrillator is being brought
to the scene.
b. Take a "Quick-look" at the cardiac rhythm.
(1) Check to ensure that power is on and the oscilloscope (the instrument
which shows electrical variations of the heartbeat on a screen) is functional (showing a
line).
(2)
Apply conductive media to paddles.
(3)
Stop compressions.
(4)
Use standard paddle placement to determine cardiac rhythm.
c. Defibrillate if ventricular fibrillation occurs.
(1)
Set the electric charge 200 joules or according to panel instructions.
(2) Ensure that the paddles are firmly placed on the patient's chest with
about 25 pounds of pressure.
(a) Place the negative paddle to the right of the upper sternum and
below the right clavicle.
(b) Place the positive paddle below and to the left of the patient's left
nipple.
(c)
Apply downward pressure to each paddle.
(d) Remember that poor contact with the patient's skin will cause him
to get burned when the machine is fired.
(e) Yell "Stand clear!" making sure that no one is directly or indirectly in
contact with the patient.
(3) Administer a nonsynchronized countershock by pressing the discharge
buttons on each paddle simultaneously.
(4)
Release the thumb pressure from the discharge buttons.
MD0571
3-12
Previous Page
