Page 41 - EMS CPR Manual V1
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When to defibrillate
A defibrillator should be used on a casualty who is not breathing normally and non responsive. Defibrillation is always combined with the delivery of CPR.
When connected to the casualty, the Defibrillator will assess the casualty’s heart rhythm and look for a shockable rhythm. The defibrillator will then either recommend a shock be given or for the rescuer to continue CPR.
NSR (Normal Sinus Rhythm)
This is the rhythm of a normal heartbeat. Where a defibrillator detects a NSR rhythm it will recommend the rescuer provide CPR, as an NSR rhythm is not a shockable rhythm.
* Note. The defibrillator does not take into account breathing or other signs and as such will give directions to shock or provide CPR only. It is up to the rescuer to determine the need for CPR based on the conscious level of the casualty and their breathing.
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DEFIBRILLATION
