____ manually pumps blood and helps deliver oxygen to the brain and body until regular cardiac rhythm is restored, and ____ assess a person’s cardiac rhythm.
Answer (1)
In the context of emergency medical procedures, the blank in your question likely refers to CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).
CPR (manually pumps blood):
What: CPR is a life-saving technique used during emergencies when someone's heart has stopped beating, known as cardiac arrest. It involves manual chest compressions combined with rescue breathing (or solely chest compressions according to guidelines).
Who: CPR can be performed by trained professionals such as paramedics or bystanders trained in first aid.
How: CPR manually restores partial blood flow to the brain and heart, which is crucial in delaying brain damage and death until professional medical help arrives.
Why: CPR is essential to maintain circulation and breathing in individuals experiencing cardiac arrest until normal cardiac rhythm can be restored.
AED (assesses a person’s cardiac rhythm):
What: An AED is a portable device used to diagnose life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and apply electrical therapy to re-establish an effective heartbeat.
Who: AEDs are designed for use by both professionals and the general public. They provide audio and visual prompts that guide users through the process.
How: The AED automatically checks the heart's rhythm and determines whether a shock is needed. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the device guides the user to deliver a shock to restore a normal rhythm.
Why: Using an AED within the first few minutes of cardiac arrest can improve survival rates drastically by restoring the heart's normal rhythm quickly.
Together, CPR and AED use can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery for someone experiencing cardiac arrest. It’s recommended for everyone, including high school students, to learn these skills through first aid training sessions.
