Preface
Preface
LIFEPAK 12 Defibrillator/Monitor Operating Instructions xi
© 2008-2010 Physio-Control, Inc.
Indications
Defibrillation is indicated for the termination of certain potentially fatal arrhythmias, such as ventricular
fibrillation and symptomatic ventricular tachycardia. Energy delivered in the synchronized mode is a
method for treating atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, and, in
relatively stable patients, ventricular tachycardia.
Contraindications
Defibrillation is contraindicated in the treatment of Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA), such as
idioventricular or ventricular escape rhythms, and in the treatment of asystole.
ABOUT NONINVASIVE PACING
A noninvasive pacemaker is a device that delivers an electrical stimulus to the heart, causing cardiac
depolarization and myocardial contraction. The energy is delivered through large adhesive electrodes
placed on the chest. In addition to noninvasive pacing, other supportive measures may be necessary.
Among other factors, it is recognized that successful pacing of a patient is related to the length of time
between the onset of a dysrhythmia and the initiation of pacing. Rapid pacing and prompt follow-up
care are essential. The physiologic state of the patient may affect the likelihood of successful pacing or
of skeletal muscle activity. The failure to successfully pace a patient is not a reliable indicator of
pacemaker performance. Similarly, the patient’s muscular response to pacing is not a reliable indicator
of energy delivered. Refer to the booklet, Noninvasive Pacing: What You Should Know, for further
information.
Indications
Noninvasive pacing is indicated for symptomatic bradycardia in patients with a pulse.
Contraindications
Noninvasive pacing is contraindicated for the treatment of ventricular fibrillation and asystole.
ABOUT 12-LEAD ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHY
The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) has traditionally been used in the hospital setting to help
physicians identify, diagnose, and treat patients with cardiac disorders. Advances in technology now
make acquiring and transmitting 12-lead ECGs in the prehospital setting both feasible and beneficial.
Prehospital 12-lead ECG with computer analysis and transmission to the emergency department is
recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Heart Attack Alert Program
(NHAAP) for patients with chest pain and possible acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The LIFEPAK 12
defibrillator/monitor incorporates the GE Medical Systems 12SL
™
ECG analysis program and the
Reperfusion Advisory Algorithm developed by Dr. Simoons (available outside the USA only). The
Reperfusion Advisory Algorithm is not intended for use on pediatric patients.
A 12-lead ECG is useful in the early detection and prompt treatment of patients with acute myocardial
infarction. When transmitted from the field, the procedure has been shown to shorten time to
in-hospital treatment by roughly 10 to 60 minutes. Patients may also benefit from triage and transport
to the most appropriate facility. Documentation of transient or intermittent arrhythmias and other
electrophysiologic events that occur in the prehospital setting can assist in diagnosis and treatment
decisions in the ED.
The prehospital 12-lead ECG offers paramedics and emergency physicians significant advantages
over the single lead cardiac typically available in EMS. The prehospital 12-lead ECG not only provides
a diagnostic quality ECG for use in the detection of AMI, but also allows the knowledgeable paramedic
to determine the area of myocardial injury, anticipate associated potential complications, and
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