We are delighted to upload this social media video explaining the current health and safety advice and protocol for the management of a medical emergency in Dromintee Club. We have undertaken the ‘Kickstart the Heart’ campaign in conjunction with Queen’s University Belfast, and there have been several changes to the club’s preparedness for a medical emergency. The video below explains the changes.
It is important to watch the video to the end. Managing a cardiac arrest is a collective effort, and having knowledge and understanding of the protocol is essential for an adequate response.
There are a few pointers in the video that are explained in more detail below.
Remember, in cardiac arrest, when the defibrillator pads are attached, the defibrillator analyses the casualty’s heart. Depending on the circumstance, some people will need to be ‘shocked’ by the defibrillator, as shown in the video. Sometimes, some casualties won’t get ‘shocked’. This is determined by the defibrillator. You do not need to make this decision. If this happens, the defibrillator will say ‘no shock advised, continue CPR’. Do not be alarmed by this and go straight back to doing chest compressions.
Our defibrillators have Paediatric pads. These are for use in children under 8 years of age. In the event of a cardiac arrest in a child <8 years, please change the pads before attaching them. If there is an issue with changing them, it is acceptable to keep the adult pads on. Remember, if a child needs to be ‘shocked’ by the defibrillator, it is better to get the adult amount of electricity (i.e. a higher voltage) than not getting any shock at all.
If there are enough people around, change the person performing the CPR regularly (at least every 2 minutes). A person who is tired cannot give adequate chest compressions.
In the grab bag, there is a towel and a razor. If the casualty’s chest is wet, please dry it with the towel first. The reason for this is to ensure the defibrillator pads stick to the chest appropriately. If the chest is particularly hairy, the pads may not stick properly (do attempt to stick them on the chest first). If the defibrillator continues to say ‘apply pads to patient’s bare skin’, then remove the pads and quickly shave the hair off the chest.
Pocket masks are also available in the grab bag. It is a personal choice to perform breaths on a patient during CPR (i.e. 30 chest compressions to every 2 breaths). If you feel comfortable using the pads, you can do so and perform 2 breaths every 30 compressions. If unsure in the moment/uncomfortable giving breaths, continue the CPR.
In a child, you can attach the defibrillator pads in a more optimal way (one at the centre of the chest and one on the child’s back). This will give a better flow of electricity through the child’s heart. Please see the attached picture.
Thank you for watching this video. If you have any queries or advice, please do not hesitate to contact us!
