A 9-year-old child has suddenly collapsed. After confirming that the scene is safe, a single rescuer determines that the child is in cardiac arrest, shouts for nearby help, and activates the emergency response system. He immediately begins performing high-quality CPR. Two additional rescuers arrive to assist in the resuscitation attempt. What actions should occur next, to support a team-based resuscitation attempt?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
In a team-based resuscitation scenario involving a 9-year-old child who has collapsed, the following actions should be taken to ensure effective and coordinated care:
- Assign Roles Clearly:
- Compressions: One rescuer should continue performing high-quality chest compressions, maintaining a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute with appropriate depth and allowing full recoil between compressions.
- Ventilations: Another rescuer should provide rescue breaths, ensuring proper airway management and ventilation.
- Defibrillation: The third rescuer should retrieve and operate the Automated External Defibrillator (AED), attaching the pads to the child’s chest and following the device’s prompts.
- Use the AED Promptly:
- As soon as the AED is available, turn it on and follow the voice prompts.
- Ensure that no one is touching the child when the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.
- If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear and deliver the shock as directed.
- Immediately resume CPR after the shock, starting with chest compressions.
- Communicate Effectively:
- Use clear and concise communication to coordinate actions, such as signaling when to switch roles or when to deliver a shock.
- Assign a team leader to oversee the resuscitation efforts and make critical decisions.
- Monitor and Rotate Roles:
- Regularly assess the effectiveness of CPR and the AED.
- Rotate roles every 2 minutes to prevent fatigue and maintain high-quality CPR.
- Prepare for Advanced Care:
- If advanced medical personnel arrive, provide them with a concise report of the child’s condition, the actions taken, and any changes observed.
Implementing these steps ensures a systematic and efficient approach to pediatric cardiac arrest, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.