Understanding Defibrillators
Lecturer: Dr Salma Al
Qazzaz
Medical instrumentation
4th stage Medical physics
students
2024
Introduction to Defibrillators
Definition and Uses ● A defibrillator is a device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its
normal rhythm.
● Primary uses include treating cardiac arrest and certain types of irregular heartbeats.
Why Use Defibrillators?
1 2 3
Defibrillators are They play a crucial Using defibrillators
essential in restoring role in increasing the promptly can prevent
normal heart rhythm survival rate of irreversible brain
during cardiac arrest. individuals damage and improve
experiencing sudden overall outcomes in
cardiac arrest. emergency situations.
Cardiac Arrest & The Role of Defibrillators
Understanding Cardiac Arrest The Role of Defibrillators
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart Defibrillators deliver an electric shock to
suddenly stops beating. the heart, aiming to restore a normal
heartbeat.
Immediate action is required to prevent
death or serious brain damage. They are essential in public places and
healthcare settings for immediate
The survival rate decreases by 10%
response.
with every minute that passes without
defibrillation. Their use within the first few minutes
can dramatically increase survival rates.
Defibrillator requirement
- An asynchronous contraction of the heart - Ventricular fibrillation is the cause of
muscles causes ventricular fibrillation, a the irregularly fast heartbeat.
dangerous cardiac emergency.
- Applying a high-energy shock to the heart can transform ventricular fibrillation
into a more efficient rhythm.
- Every muscle fiber in the heart contracts at the same time as a result of this
sudden surge.
- The fibers might then start to pulse in response to a typical physiological
pacemaker.
- Defibrillators are devices used to deliver shock therapy.
Types of Defibrillators
Automated External Implantable Cardioverter
External Defibrillator Defibrillator (ICD)
Defibrillator (AED)
Requires trained medical Designed for public use with Implanted device that
personnel to analyze heart automated shock delivery after monitors heart rhythms and
rhythms and deliver shocks. analyzing the heart rhythm. delivers shocks internally.
Components of a Defibrillator
The parts of the defibrillator that deliver the electric shock to the patient's chest
1- Electrodes : to restore normal heart rhythm.
The power supply that charges the defibrillator to deliver the necessary
2- Energy Source: electrical energy to the patient.
The interface on the defibrillator that allows the user to adjust settings, initiate
3- Control Panel: shocks, and monitor the device's status.
The screen that shows vital information such as heart rhythm, energy levels,
4- Monitoring Display:
and prompts during the defibrillation process.
Basic Operation of Defibrillators
1. Charging: Ensure the defibrillator is 2. Electrode Placement: Properly
fully charged to deliver the necessary position the electrodes on the patient's
energy for the shock. chest for effective electrical contact.
3. Energy Delivery: Administer the shock 4. ECG Monitoring: Continuously
through the electrodes to restore the monitor the patient's electrocardiogram
heart's normal rhythm. (ECG) to assess the heart's response to
the defibrillation.
How Defibrillators Work
Mechanism of Action
● Defibrillators deliver an electric shock to the heart muscle.
● The shock interrupts chaotic electrical activity in the heart,
allowing it to reset and resume a normal rhythm.
Post-Defibrillation Care
After Using a Defibrillator Considerations
• Ensure the patient's airway is clear and • Assess the patient's response to defibrillation
breathing is stable. and monitor for any potential complications.
• Monitor the patient's vital signs and provide • Document the event and communicate
any necessary medical support. effectively with the medical team for continued
care.
Risks and Benefits
Benefits Risks
• Immediate life-saving intervention during • Potential for causing skin burns if not
cardiac arrest. used correctly.
• Easy to use, even for non-medical • May not be effective if the underlying
personnel in some cases. cause of cardiac arrest is not
addressed.
• Can significantly increase the chances
of survival and recovery in critical • Could lead to complications in patients
situations. with certain heart conditions.