Adult basic life support
Article Abstract:
Basic life support involves giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to a victim who is not breathing and also performing chest compressions if the victim has no pulse. It is the first step in caring for victims of a cardiac arrest, and can be performed by anyone. The first goal is to determine whether the victim is conscious. At this point, a witness should call 911 to activate the emergency medical service system. The rescuer should open the victim's airway to determine whether the victim is breathing. The presence of a pulse should be determined by feeling the carotid artery beside the windpipe. The rescuer should compress the victim's chest at the lower half of the sternum (breastbone) at the rate of 80 to 100 compressions per minute. After 15 compressions, the rescuer should stop to supply two breaths to the victim. The cycle is then repeated. Rescuers can use the Heimlich maneuver to remove a foreign object that may be blocking the airway.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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The Shocking Truth About Automated External Defibrillators
Article Abstract:
Doctors should not promote the widespread use of defibrillators by the public in their homes until there is evidence that the devices actually save lives. Defibrillators are used to treat heart attack patients by stimulating the heart to beat normally. However, more research is needed before they are sold over-the-counter to the general public.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2000
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Is It Time for Over-the-Counter Defibrillators?
Article Abstract:
Many people who have a heart attack could be safely treated at home with a portable defibrillator. Defibrillators are medical devices that stop a heart attack by stimulating the heart to beat properly. A small, inexpensive defibrillator could be sold to the public along with a short video explaining its use.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2000
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