Which of the following is the application of a strong electrical current to the chest to reset coordinated beating of the heart
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is Defibrillation.
Defibrillation is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia. These conditions occur when the heart’s electrical system becomes chaotic, and the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to a loss of consciousness and potential organ failure. The application of a strong electrical current to the chest using a defibrillator is intended to “reset” the heart’s electrical activity, giving it a chance to return to a normal rhythm.
The procedure involves placing two large electrodes, called pads or paddles, on the patient’s chest. A defibrillator delivers a controlled electrical shock to the heart, which depolarizes the heart muscle cells all at once. This helps to disrupt the abnormal rhythm and allow the heart’s natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node, to regain control and restore a normal heartbeat.
Defibrillation is typically used in emergency situations, such as during cardiac arrest. It is often performed by healthcare professionals, but automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are available in public spaces to allow bystanders to administer shocks when necessary. AEDs are designed to detect abnormal heart rhythms and provide clear instructions to the user, making them accessible to people without advanced medical training.
On the other hand, arrhythmia refers to any irregularity in the heart’s rhythm, and fibrillation refers to rapid, irregular heartbeats, particularly of the ventricles or atria. Defibrillation specifically targets these types of conditions to restore proper heart function.