Daily we learn of advances in technology. One which can save lives is the relatively new technology of Defibrillator/Monitor. One man who called 911 owes his life to this innovative device. In the past, caregivers were admonished to become certified in the technique of administering Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). This life-saving process included the giving of breaths and chest compressions to an individual who was not breathing.
CPR requires a great deal of strength and endurance because, in many cases, it takes a long time for a person to start breathing again. Often, more than one certified person is necessary for the job to be done, and CPR must be continued to be done until the paramedics arrive.
Today, giving breaths is out. Chest compressions are still in. But, the greatest change in cardio pulmonary resuscitation is in the use of defibrillator/monitors.
While experiencing chest pain recently, a man called 911. When the paramedics arrived, they monitored the man's heart with the defibrillator/monitor called LifePak 15. In a short time, feeling much better, the man refused to be taken to the hospital. The paramedics kept the LifePak 15 connected to the man while they were attempting to convince him that he needed to go to the hospital.
As this man continued to refuse further treatment, and was signing the document to that effect, paramedics noticed an elevation in the monitor's readings. At that time, the man admitted that he was again feeling chest pain and agreed to go to the hospital. En route to the hospital, his condition continued to worsen. He was taken right away to the Cardiac Cath Lab where it was found that he had a 99% occlusion to a major coronary artery.
Two days later, the man returned home, his occlusion repaired. He felt much better. His life was saved.
Defibrillators in general have been around for a decade. This new defibrillator which is replacing the older ones is more easily portable. Its read-outs can be seen in the dark or in bright daylight. In addition, the 12 leads connected to the patient actually give the same information provided in hospitals by the Electrocardiogram (ECG).
The readings can also be transmitted to a computer by which the paramedics can communicate with the hospital. This way, medical personnel can be prepared for the arrival of the patient. The information can then be transmitted to the doctor's smart phone.
The new defibrillators save time and lives. They have even been used to monitor levels of carbon monoxide, a poison gas, which often presents in victims of fires. Security for your loved one or yourself depends upon getting that 911 call made as soon as problems present themselves. Family security requires that people be informed about available life saving procedures. Secure your family.
