Table of Contents
Cardiac emergencies can occur without warning in the workplace, requiring swift, decisive action from first aid attendants. Recognizing symptoms early and initiating proper care can save lives. This guide provides a structured approach to handling cardiac emergencies effectively.
Understanding the Circulatory System
The circulatory system transports oxygen and nutrients while removing waste. Key components: ✅ Heart – Pumps blood throughout the body. ✅ Arteries – Carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart. ✅ Veins – Return oxygen-depleted blood to the heart. ✅ Capillaries – Facilitate oxygen and waste exchange. ✅ Pulmonary Circulation – Moves blood through the lungs for oxygenation. ✅ Systemic Circulation – Distributes oxygenated blood to the body.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
CAD is a leading cause of heart attacks, caused by fatty plaque buildup in arteries.
Risk Factors:
🚬 Smoking 📈 High blood pressure & cholesterol 🚶♂️ Physical inactivity 🍔 Obesity & diabetes ⚠ Family history & stress
Angina Pectoris
🔹 Symptoms: Chest pain due to temporary oxygen deficiency. 🔹 Triggers: Physical exertion or stress. 🔹 Relief: Rest or nitroglycerin.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction – MI)
🚨 Heart attacks occur when a coronary artery is blocked, depriving heart muscle of oxygen.
A. Signs & Symptoms
✅ Chest pain – May radiate to arms, jaw, or upper abdomen. ✅ Shortness of breath & weakness ✅ Sweating, pallor, nausea, vomiting ✅ Weak, rapid, or irregular pulse
B. Management
1️⃣ Keep the patient calm in a comfortable position. 2️⃣ Assess the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation). 3️⃣ Administer oxygen if needed. 4️⃣ Encourage chewing one 325 mg Aspirin (or two 81 mg tablets). 5️⃣ Prepare for rapid transport. 6️⃣ Monitor vitals & assist ventilation as needed.
Cardiac Arrest
💀 Cardiac arrest is the sudden cessation of heart function.
A. Recognition
🔹 Unresponsive 🔹 No normal breathing (gasping = agonal breathing) 🔹 No pulse
B. Management
1️⃣ Start CPR immediately (30 chest compressions). 2️⃣ Call for an AED. 3️⃣ Perform CPR:
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Ensure a firm surface.
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Compress chest at least 5 cm deep.
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Maintain 100-120 compressions per minute. 4️⃣ Give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. 5️⃣ Attach AED & follow prompts. 6️⃣ Continue until medical personnel arrive.
C. Reasons NOT to Start CPR
🚫 Obvious death signs (e.g., decapitation). 🚫 Submersion >60 minutes.
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
CHF occurs when the heart fails to pump effectively, causing fluid buildup in lungs.
A. Signs & Symptoms
✅ Shortness of breath (worsens when lying down) ✅ Frothy pink or white sputum ✅ Cold, clammy skin ✅ Cyanosis (blue lips & skin) ✅ Distended neck veins
B. Management
1️⃣ Keep the patient calm. 2️⃣ Position upright (legs dangling if possible). 3️⃣ Administer oxygen. 4️⃣ Suction airway if needed. 5️⃣ Prepare for rapid transport.
Traumatic Cardiovascular Emergencies
Trauma can cause serious cardiac complications.
A. Myocardial Contusion (Heart Bruising)
🚨 Caused by blunt chest trauma ✅ Symptoms: Chest pain, palpitations, breathing difficulty. ✅ Management: Follow chest injury protocols, prepare for rapid transport.
B. Pericardial Tamponade (Fluid in Heart Sac)
🚨 Life-threatening condition requiring immediate transport. ✅ Symptoms: Rapid pulse, shock, cyanosis, distended neck veins.
C. Major Vessel Injury
🚨 Massive hemorrhage can be fatal. ✅ Symptoms: Shock, chest/back pain, absent limb pulse. ✅ Management: Prioritize rapid transport.
General Principles of Management
✅ Scene Safety – Activate emergency response systems. ✅ Primary Survey – ABCs assessment. ✅ Rapid Transport – Time-sensitive cases must reach the hospital fast. ✅ Oxygen Administration – Provide high-flow oxygen as needed. ✅ CPR/AED Readiness – Be prepared to intervene immediately. ✅ Patient Positioning – Position for comfort & airway ease. ✅ Continuous Monitoring – Regularly assess vitals & symptoms.
The Chain of Survival
🚑 Steps to improve survival in cardiac emergencies: 1️⃣ Early recognition – Identify warning signs. 2️⃣ Early 911 activation – Call emergency services. 3️⃣ Early CPR – Maintain circulation. 4️⃣ Early defibrillation – AED use ASAP. 5️⃣ Early advanced care – Ensure proper follow-up treatment. 6️⃣ Early rehabilitation – Recovery support post-event.
Critical Reminders
⚠ Cardiac patients may not exhibit normal shock symptoms due to medication effects. ⚠ Time is critical – Early intervention improves survival. ⚠ Regular CPR/AED training is essential.
Final Thoughts
Effective recognition and management of cardiac emergencies are critical for OFA Level 3 attendants. By following structured assessment protocols, ensuring rapid response, and maintaining current training, you can improve survival rates in cardiac events.
🚑 Stay prepared! Refresh your skills with an OFA Level 3 in Vancouver today!