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Lethal Cardiac Rhythms That Everyone Should Know

Discussion in 'Cardiology' started by Egyptian Doctor, Aug 15, 2015.

  1. Egyptian Doctor

    Egyptian Doctor Moderator Verified Doctor

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    Walking down the street, taking in the sun’s ray,

    Everything is calm and cool, wishing it were like this everyday.

    You suddenly notice a commotion, people are gathering around,

    Sirens are blaring loudly, while people stare at the ground.

    As you get closer, you see a man down,

    And discover that this is apparently how he was found.

    What is going on? You don’t know.

    But you will be aware, when I will show.



    Cardiac arrests are the stressful phenomena of medical science,

    But what exactly leads to this end of life defiance?

    What happens in the heart that is so lethal?

    And makes the doctors useless, while spectators create upheaval?



    There are two cardiac rhythms that bring a person’s demise,

    Vfib is one, and pulseless VTach the other surprise.

    Ventricular Fibrillation and Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia are their names,

    Both a result of electrical dysfunction, rendering the heart to flames.

    An example of ventricular fibrillation. Consists of erratic electrical activity.

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/...ar_fibrillation_(CardioNetworks_ECGpedia).png



    In this EKG, the sawtooth-shaped waves in Lead II most accurately represent the most common pattern seen in Ventricular Tachycardia.

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Torsades_de_Pointes_TdP.png



    As the ventricles contract ineffectively and blood remains still,

    Perfusion is compromised, the body like a useless water mill.

    It could be a clot or an overdose, including a range of reasons,

    But we know not the exact cause, oh such a treason!



    The best therapies presently for this melancholy event,

    Are CPR and defibrillation delivered with the best intent.

    Try to contract the heart through CPR to reestablish coronary perfusion,

    Rejuvenate this central pump and give a life infusion.

    While external electricity through defibrillation recharges this intrathoracic device,

    Trying to reset the rhythm to a rate that is both accurate and precise.



    Recognizing these lethal rhythms is a common accomplishment for all,

    But understanding the manifestation is like climbing an unclimbable wall.

    And now you know the basics of arresting cardiac rhythms…



    Featured Image:

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:CPR.jpg

    a6fcd876c18d7ecd8c329680c5ff2652.jpg

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