Understanding Cardiac Arrest:
Cardiac arrest results from the abrupt cessation of heart function, which immediately stops blood flow to the brain and organs. Factors contributing to cardiac arrest include:
*Arrhythmias* Abnormal heart rhythms, mainly ventricular fibrillation, disrupt normal circulation.
*Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)* A blockage in the coronary arteries can damage the heart muscle and prevent blood flow.
Recognizing symptoms, such as sudden collapse, lack of pulse, and absence of breathing, is essential for initiating CPR quickly.
*Respiratory Emergencies*
Respiratory emergencies occur when breathing stops or becomes critically impaired. Common causes include:
*Airway Obstruction*: Blockages from foreign objects, choking, or trauma.
*Respiratory Arrest* Often a result of drowning, drug overdose, or severe asthma.
*Respiratory Failure*: A life-threatening condition where breathing is insufficient to support oxygen intake or carbon dioxide removal.