Page 54 - OHS, July/August 2024

DEFIBRILLATION & CPR
Reviving Rhythms: The Critical Role of CPR and Defibrillation in
Emergency Response
CPR and defibrillation significantly improve survival rates during sudden cardiac arrest, and their integration into workplace safety protocols is crucial.
BY IAN DURRANT
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are crucial life-saving techniques that can greatly influ- ence survival rates during emergencies involving sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The American Heart Association
reports that immediate CPR can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) within the first few minutes can further increase survival rates to over 40 percent.1
For professionals in workplace safety and health, grasping the critical importance of these procedures is vital for bolstering emer- gency response capabilities. These key professionals need to un- derstand the nature of CPR and defibrillation, their pivotal roles in emergency situations and key considerations for effectively inte- grating these techniques into workplace safety protocols. By imple- menting these life-saving measures, workplace safety professionals can significantly enhance the readiness and responsiveness of their emergency response systems.
Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest
According to the American Heart Association, sudden cardiac ar- rest (SCA) occurs when the heart abruptly ceases to function ef- fectively, halting blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.2 This cessation can be due to various factors such as ventricular fibrillation, where the heart’s electrical activity becomes erratic, or asystole, a complete lack of electrical activity.
Without immediate intervention, SCA can lead to death with- in minutes.3 Each year, SCA claims the lives of many individuals globally, with numerous cases potentially preventable through prompt and appropriate responses. The urgency of response in these situations cannot be overstated, as the chances of survival decrease by approximately 10 percent with every minute that passes without intervention.4
The Importance of CPR
CPR, a critical first-aid technique, involves manual efforts to maintain circulation and oxygenation in a person experiencing SCA. The procedure can substantially enhance the chances of survival by:
■ Maintaining circulation. CPR helps sustain blood flow to the brain and vital organs.5 This manual circulation is crucial in keep- ing the organs functioning and preventing irreversible damage.
■ Providing oxygenation. Through chest compressions and rescue breaths, CPR aids in delivering oxygen to the lungs and subsequently to the body.6 Oxygen is vital for cellular function and survival, and its absence can lead to severe outcomes.
■ Preventing brain damage. By sustaining blood flow and 52 Occupational Health & Safety | JULY/AUGUST 2024
oxygen levels, CPR can mitigate the risk of brain damage, which can occur rapidly after the heart stops.7 Brain cells begin to die within minutes without oxygen, leading to possible permanent damage or death.
The Role of Defibrillation
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, de- fibrillation involves delivering an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm.8 This intervention is most effective when administered promptly following the onset of SCA. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are devices designed to diagnose life-threatening arrhythmias and deliver shocks accordingly. AEDs are equipped with voice prompts, lights, and text instructions to guide rescuers through the process, making them accessible even to individuals with minimal training.
Historical Perspective
and Evolution of CPR and Defibrillation
Understanding the evolution of CPR and defibrillation provides valuable context for their current use and importance. CPR has been practiced in various forms for centuries, with modern tech- niques being refined and standardized in the mid-20th century.9 The development of defibrillation technology—particularly the portable AED—has revolutionized emergency cardiac care, mak- ing life-saving interventions more accessible to the general public and not just healthcare professionals.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Implementing CPR and defibrillation protocols in the workplace can pose several challenges. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for an effective emergency response system:
■ Fear and hesitation. Employees may feel apprehensive about performing CPR or using an AED. 10 Overcoming this fear involves fostering a supportive environment and emphasizing the life-sav- ing potential of these actions. Educational initiatives that highlight success stories and provide reassurance about the effectiveness and safety of CPR and AED use can help alleviate these fears.
■ Lack of training. Ensuring consistent access to training for all employees is vital.11
Options include online courses, in-person training and regular refreshers.
■ Equipment accessibility. Strategic placement and clear mark- ing of AEDs, along with regular drills, help familiarize employees with their locations.12 Creating an environment where AEDs are as common as fire extinguishers can enhance readiness and response times.
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