Saving lives is a responsibility that we all share. In critical situations, such as sudden cardiac arrest, knowing the right actions to take can make all the difference. While cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a crucial skill to learn, the proper use of a defibrillator can significantly increase a person’s chances of survival. In this blog, we will explore the differences between CPR and defibrillators and help you understand when to use a defibrillator.
Understanding CPR and When to Use CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is a life-saving technique used to manually assist a person’s blood flow and breathing when their heart has stopped. CPR involves performing chest compressions and rescue breaths, mimicking the pumping action of the heart and supplying oxygen to the body.
CPR is a vital skill that everyone should learn, as it can help sustain life until professional medical help arrives. However, it is important to note that CPR is not always enough to restart a heart that has stopped beating. This is when to use a defibrillator.
Introducing Defibrillators
A defibrillator, also known as an automated external defibrillator (AED), is a portable device that delivers an electric shock to the heart in an attempt to restore its normal rhythm. Defibrillators are designed to be user-friendly, providing clear instructions through visual and auditory prompts.
Defibrillators are effective in cases of sudden cardiac arrest caused by a chaotic heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT). In these situations, electrical shocks from a defibrillator can help reset the heart’s rhythm, giving it a better chance of starting again.
When to Use a Defibrillator
So, when should you use a defibrillator instead of performing CPR alone? The answer is simple – as soon as one is available. The faster a defibrillator is used, the greater the chances of survival for the person in cardiac arrest.
Research conducted by the London Ambulance Service shows that using a defibrillator prior to the arrival of emergency services can double the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest. In fact, the survival rate increases to an astonishing 57.1% when a defibrillator is used promptly.
With these statistics in mind, it becomes evident that owning a defibrillator and knowing how to use it can save lives. That’s why we at Defib Sales and Training Ltd are passionate about providing the nation with the ability to respond to cardiac emergencies effectively.
Book Your Defibrillator Training Now
To ensure that you are confident and equipped in when to use a defibrillator in an emergency, we offer expert defibrillator training courses. Our 2-hour training sessions, conducted by qualified specialists, provide comprehensive instructions on how to use an AED effectively, along with basic life-saving skills and CPR techniques.
Our training courses are suitable for individuals and groups, whether you have prior first aid training experience or not. We ensure that all participants leave the training feeling confident in their ability to respond and provide effective cardiac arrest treatment and knowing when to use a defibrillator.
For more information about our defibrillators, parts, accessories, and training courses, visit our website here. You can also reach out to us at 0800 130 3700 or email us at sales@defibsalesandtraining.co.uk. Our friendly team is ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Remember, by investing in defibrillator training, you are investing in the chance to save lives. Act now, know when to use a defibrillator and be prepared for any cardiac emergency that comes your way!