These days incidents of cardiac arrest are on the rise. For some, it is due to family history but for some, it is because of their faulty lifestyle habits. More than ever before, it has become important to focus on heart health. This is where devices like a defibrillator come in.
It has been around for many years, but given the rise in heart attacks, the demand for it has increased too. These are helpful in emergencies. The best part is that you don’t need training to use it, just the basics. Before knowing the steps on how to use a defibrillator, let’s understand what a defibrillator is.
What is a Defibrillator?
A defibrillator is a medical device that helps in treating life-threatening situations, mainly cardiac attacks. Using this device, heart rhythms receive an electric shock to bring back the normal heartbeat of a person. This process is known as defibrillation as well as electrical cardioversion. In addition to cardiac attack, this device also helps in ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation.
Steps to Use a Defibrillator
Before planning to buy a defibrillator Ireland, here are the steps you need to know on how to use it:
Step 1- Switch On the Device
The very first thing you need to do is switch on the defibrillator by pressing the green button.
Step 2- Remove the Clothes of the Patient
Now, remove the individual’s clothing gently and carefully. In situations, it might feel awkward but remember it is a life-or-death situation. So cut off or slip down the bra straps if needed in an emergency.
Step 3- Attach the Device to the Skin
Once you remove the cloth, attach the device to the person’s bare skin. Remember to peel off the sticky pads and place each pad on each side of the chest.
Step 4- Stop CPR
Stop the CPR immediately once you attach the pads and do not touch the person. Here the defibrillator will do the checking for the heart rhythm. Depending on the condition, the device will decide if the person needs a shock or not.
Step 5- Follow the Device’s Instruction
If the person needs a shock, then the defibrillator will ask you to press the shock button. Remember to not touch the person in the process of being shocked.
