Practical guide: cardiac massage and defibrillation

In cardiac resuscitation, there are two crucial elements: cardiac massage and defibrillation. Understanding the difference between these gestures can be the key to saving lives.

The importance of massage and defibrillation

• Cardiac massage

  In the event of cardiac arrest, cardiac massage, the first step in the chain of survival, becomes essential to maintain blood circulation. It aims to irrigate vital organs by getting the heart pumping. A good massage reduces the after-effects.
  In 100% of cases of cardiac arrest, massage is required.

• Defibrillation

  Defibrillation involves administering an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in the event of a serious arrhythmia. In some cases of cardiac arrest, such as asystole, the defibrillator is ineffective.

Different types of defibrillator

Various types of defibrillator are available on the market, each adapted to specific needs. Some are automatic, others semi-automatic.

• Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)

  An automatic external defibrillator (AED) is fully automated in its electric shock delivery process. Once the device has analyzed the cardiac rhythm of the person in cardiac arrest, it automatically decides whether to administer a shock. If yes, the device delivers the shock without the need for manual intervention.

• Semi-Automatic Defibrillator

  In contrast, a semi-automatic defibrillator requires manual intervention to deliver the electric shock. After analyzing the heart rhythm, the device tells the user whether a shock is required. If this is the case, the user must press a button to trigger the defibrillation process.

Choice according to need

The choice between an AED and a semi-automatic defibrillator depends on the context of use and the user’s experience. AEDs are often preferred in environments where first-aid personnel may not have extensive medical training, as they automate the process. In contrast, semi-automatic defibrillators offer greater manual control, which may be preferable in situations where qualified healthcare professionals are present.

Cardiac Massage Aids

As cardiac massage is both a technical and tiring procedure, a range of assistance devices are available to ensure it is performed correctly. Among them, the Cardio First Angel stands out for its specific features.

Why First Angel Cardio?

1. 100% mechanical: works in any situation, no batteries or maintenance required. Lifespan of at least 8 years.
2. Accessibility: its intuitive operation makes it accessible to all, even those with no first aid training.
3. Immediate response: with sound feedback for an effective massage.
4. Less apprehension: the person performing CPR feels more at ease, because he or she is not in direct contact with the victim.

Complementarity between the First Angel Cardio and the Defibrillator

The effectiveness of cardiac resuscitation often lies in the synergy between several tools. After reading this article, it’s clear that the Cardio First Angel and the defibrillator can work together to maximize the chances of survival in the event of cardiac arrest.

In conclusion, cardiac massage and defibrillation are essential links in the chain of survival, each playing a specific but interconnected role. Integrated into this chain, the Cardio First Angel and the defibrillator optimize the chances of saving lives in the event of a cardiac emergency.