Biomedizinische Technik. Biomedical engineering
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The Automated External Defibrillation is the key link of the chain of survival for patients in cardiac arrest. A lot of case series and trials have shown the effectiveness of early defibrillation by first rescuers and trained lay persons. ⋯ The new generation of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are sophisticated, computerized devices that are reliable and simple to operate, enabling also lay rescuers to administer this lifesaving intervention to victims of cardiac arrest. For the concept of recurrent adequate and qualified training in the use of the AED integrated in effective DPR is recommended.
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[Acute cardiovascular failure and its treatment--value of defibrillation in preclinical management].
Ventricular fibrillation is the most common cause of cardiac arrest. The only scientifically proved therapy that guarantees a long time survival is the early electrical defibrillation. As early as 200 years ago electricity was employed in trying to regain circulation in cases of unexpected death. ⋯ The advantage of the biphasic defibrillation is a less harmful impact on the myocardium at lower shock intensity. A further novelty which enables the application by groups other than the rescue services, is the automatic external defibrillator (AED). Extending the availability of defibrillators can contribute to an increase in the presently low success rates of resuscitation.
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Sudden cardiac arrest is a major problem of our society. Ventricular fibrillation strikes without any warning. It leads to unconsciousness and death occurs within minutes. ⋯ Hereby, delays based on false information can be reduced to a minimum. Optimizing the equipment by means of implementing automatic procedures which enable the application by laymen is just as important. But the key to medical success appears to be educating and repeatedly training as many people as possible.