NREMT EMT 8: Psychomotor Skills Stations - Cardiac Arrest Management, BLS, CPR, AED, Team Dynamics

What This Is: Cardiac Arrest Management / BLS (CPR, AED, Team Dynamics)

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs. It's like a car engine stalling in the middle of a road trip – everything comes to a halt. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time, making it crucial for bystanders to know what to do.

Key Steps / Core Facts:

• Cardiac Arrest Definition: Sudden loss of heart function, leading to unresponsiveness and no breathing. (AVPU: Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive)
• CPR Compression Depth: At least 2 inches – like pushing down a soda can. (30:2 ratio, 30 compressions to 2 breaths)
• CPR Rate: 100-120 compressions per minute – like a metronome on a drum set.
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Use: Attach pads, analyze heart rhythm, and deliver shock if needed. (AEDs can save lives by restoring a normal heartbeat)
• CPR Hand Position: Place hands one on top of the other, with fingers interlaced, and heels of hands on the center of the chest. (like holding a large pizza)
• Breathing Ratio: 1 breath for every 5-6 compressions – like taking a sip of water between bites.
• CPR Duration: Continue until EMS arrives, or the person starts showing signs of regaining consciousness. (no time limit, just keep going)
• AED Safety: Make sure the area is clear of water and the person is not in contact with any metal objects. (AEDs can deliver a shock, so keep everyone safe)
• Team Dynamics: Work together with others to perform CPR and use the AED. (teamwork makes the dream work)
• Red Flag: If the person is unresponsive, not breathing, or has no pulse, start CPR immediately. (no time to waste)
• CPR Quality: Focus on compressions, not breaths, and aim for 2-3 inches of chest movement. (quality over quantity)
• AED Maintenance: Check the expiration date and battery level before use. (AEDs need regular maintenance to work properly)

What Laypeople Can Do:

• If someone collapses, first check for danger (oncoming traffic, fire). Then shout and tap their shoulder.
• If the person is unresponsive, not breathing, or has no pulse, start CPR by calling 911 and pushing down on their chest 30 times.
• If you have an AED nearby, attach the pads and follow the device's instructions.
• Keep the person's airway clear by tilting their head back and lifting their chin.
• Stay with the person and continue CPR until EMS arrives.

Common Mistakes:

• Mistake: Not calling 911 immediately.
• Fix: Call 911 right away, even if you're not sure what's happening.
• Mistake: Not checking for danger before approaching the person.
• Fix: Always check for danger before helping someone who's collapsed.
• Mistake: Not using the AED if it's available.
• Fix: Use the AED if it's nearby and you know how to use it.

Quick Practice Scenarios:

1. A friend collapses while playing basketball. What should you do first?

Call 911 and start CPR by pushing down on their chest 30 times.

1. You're at the mall and see someone having a seizure. What should you do first?

Call 911 and make sure the person is safe and not in danger.

1. Your child is playing with a friend and they both get into a fight. One of them collapses. What should you do first?

Call 911 and start CPR by pushing down on their chest 30 times.

Last-Minute Exam Cram:

• Agonal breathing is NOT normal breathing – start CPR.
• Normal heart rate: 60-100 beats per minute.
• Normal blood pressure: 90-120 mmHg.
• CPR ratio: 30:2 (30 compressions to 2 breaths).
• AED pads: attach to the chest, not the back.
• Don't use the AED on a person with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
• Normal body temperature: 98.6°F (37°C).
• Normal respiratory rate: 12-20 breaths per minute.
• Normal pulse oximetry: 95-100%.
• Don't delay CPR to call 911 – call first and start CPR.
• Normal blood glucose: 70-110 mg/dL.
• Normal oxygen saturation: 95-100%.
• Don't use the AED on a person who's in contact with metal objects.