What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. The victim suddenly becomes unconscious and stops breathing.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attacks
A Sudden Cardiac Arrest is not the same thing as a heart attack, although a person suffering a heart attack is more likely to develop abnormal heart rhythms and sudden cardiac arrest. Here’s how they are different:
Sudden Cardiac Arrest |
Heart Attack |
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm. |
A heart attack is caused by blocked flow to the heart muscle so the muscle begins to die. |
There is rarely a warning before Sudden Cardiac Arrest |
A heart attack is often preceded by chest, arm, upper abdomen, or jaw pain. Nausea and sweating are common. |
Sudden Cardiac Arrest victims always lose consciousness. |
Heart attack patients usually remain conscious. |
Who Is At Risk?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is unpredictable and can happen to anyone, anywhere. Risk increases with age.
Although pre-existing heart disease is a common cause of cardiac arrest, many victims never have had any heart problems.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Usually, the first sign of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is when a person collapses and loss of consciousness (fainting), the person stops breathing and no heartbeat (or pulse) can be felt.
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable and easy-to-use medical device that has a built-in computer that analyses an unconscious victim’s heart rhythm and determines if it requires a shock.
Can I accidently Hurt Someone with an AED?
No, you cannot. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are programmed to deliver an electric shock when an abnormal rhythm is detected in a victim. You can not deliver a shock if the AED decides not to. This prevents giving a shock to someone who may have fainted but isn’t having a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).
Can I remove the Electrode Pads if the Patient becomes Conscious and starts Breathing?
No, don’t remove the electrode pads until the ambulance arrives and paramedics take over the care of the patient. This prevents the occurrence of re-arrest and ensures the patient is continuously being monitored until advance care is available.
Am I Legally Protected if I provided Assistance to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest Victim, including Using an AED?
Yes, staff at QUT are indemnified by the University against civil liability resulting from the use of an AED. QUT accepts full and sole responsibility for all claims including the cost of defending or settlement in cases where, in the reasonable opinion of the QUT Council, the officer concerned has diligently and conscientiously endeavoured to carry out his or her duties. and has complied with QUT policies and procedures. Refer to MOPP: http://www.mopp.qut.edu.au/A/A_07_01.jsp
I am not Trained. What should I do?
Using an AED is easy. Just turn it on by opening the lid and pushing it back until it
locks, then follow the voice and screen prompts. Watch the video.
Anything you do to help, even just a phone call to 000 and 3138 8888 will increase someone’s chance of survival.