I guess I’m talking about defibrillation. Is it just the movies, or is it how defibrillation actually works in real life ?
I mean, you are trying to revive someone, trying to bring them back to life. What’s the worse thing that can happen ? Why do they start from low voltages and increase it slowly, and get more and more anxious and dramatic every time they say “Go up to 350” or whatever.
I mean, the person is already dead. What’s the risk ? Why do they act so hesitant ? What’s there to lose ?
In: Biology
Defibrillators aren’t used when your heart stops, so there is no reviving someone with one. The only thing that will start your heart pumping is someone slamming your chest (trying not to break your ribs) doing CPR. Nowadays they use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) that are used in conjunction with CPR and actually talk to let the rescuer know when to start, stop, and clear so that it can apply a jolt safely to get the victim’s heart beating regularly. The paddles being rubbed together and then placed on the patient while the doctor yells, “CLEAR!” is Hollywood theatrics.
Source: Entered cardiac arrest and revived 3 times in a short span of time in the ER.
Fun fact: The rhythm they teach someone doing CPR is “Stayin Alive” by the Bee Gees.
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