Unsure which defibrillator is right for you? Speak to an AED specialist at +61 3 8710 8666

What is Sudden cardiac arrest

by | Sep 9, 2022 | Community & Workplace Safety, Defibrillator News & Updates, Defibrillators, Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), Uncategorised

Comprehensive Guide & AED Solutions

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)

Sudden Cardiac Arrest occurs unexpectedly when the heart abruptly stops beating effectively due to electrical disturbances within the heart’s rhythm. Unlike a heart attack, which is a circulation problem, SCA is an electrical problem that prevents blood from flowing to the brain and other vital organs. Without immediate and effective intervention, such as CPR and defibrillation, it can lead to death within minutes.

Key Australian Statistics

  • Incidence: Over 30,000 Australians experience out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) each year, making it one of the leading causes of death.

  • Survival Rate: Only around 10% survive these events, primarily due to delays in administering immediate CPR and early defibrillation.

  • Critical Timing: Each minute without intervention reduces survival odds by approximately 10%, highlighting the urgent necessity of immediate action.

Recognising the Symptoms of SCA

Knowing the signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest can save precious time and potentially lives. Key symptoms include:

  • Sudden collapse or fainting

  • Absence of pulse

  • No breathing or abnormal breathing (gasping)

  • Immediate loss of consciousness

  • Occasionally, victims might experience dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath moments before collapsing.

Immediate Response: Call – Push – Shock

A rapid response can significantly improve survival outcomes:

  1. Call: Dial Triple Zero (000) immediately to alert emergency medical services.

  2. Push: Begin CPR by performing rapid chest compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute, compressing at least 5cm deep into the chest.

  3. Shock: Promptly use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), following its straightforward voice prompts.

The Vital Role of AEDs

Samaritan_Breakout

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical devices designed to quickly deliver an electric shock to the heart, helping restore its normal rhythm. Immediate AED use within the first few minutes of an SCA event can dramatically increase survival rates—often improving them to above 70%. AEDs are user-friendly, providing clear voice instructions, making them accessible to individuals without medical training.

AED Authority’s Commitment to Community Safety

At AED Authority, our mission is to enhance community safety and increase survival rates through specialised AED solutions tailored to Australian environments. We provide comprehensive, customised AED bundles perfect for various organisations including businesses, schools, sporting clubs, and community facilities. Our bundles typically include:

Explore our comprehensive defibrillator bundles here: AED Authority Bundles

Ensure Your Community’s Sudden Cardiac Arrest Readiness

Take proactive steps today to equip your facility, workplace, or community space with an AED. Immediate access to a defibrillator significantly boosts the chance of survival during a cardiac emergency, safeguarding lives and promoting health and safety.

For personalised advice, expert consultation, and tailored AED solutions, contact AED Authority directly.

Product Enquiry