Sudden Cardiac Death

Cardiac Arrest:

A profound dilemma exists in the world of heart disease called sudden cardiac death. It doesn't get the recognition that heart attack does, but it's affect on the community can be devastating. The American Heart Association supports the "chain of survival" to save people from death's door who fall victim to cardiac arrest.

The Chain Of Survival as Supported By The American Heart Association:

• Early Recognition of the Emergency and Activation of Emergency Response System (phone 9-1-1 immediately)


• Early CPR


• Early Defibrillation


• Early Advanced Care

What is sudden cardiac death?

When the heart ceases to function, there is no blood circulation, no pulse, and ultimately, no life. For all intents and purposes the victim is dead. If circulation is not restarted within four minutes, cell death begins to occur in the brain, heart, and other major organs. If someone around you goes into cardiac arrest, call 911 immediately and start CPR if you know how. If you don't know CPR, contact your local Red Cross and enroll in a class to learn it. You will then be prepared to save a life should the need arise..

Did you know that emergency medical services are called to respond to approximately 294,851 cardiac arrest cases per year?

What causes sudden cardiac death?

Heart disease is the main contributor to sudden cardiac death. Electrical impulses in the heart begin to fire too rapidly causing an irregular heart rhythm, which results in heart to cease functioning. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) can also interrupt heart functionality.

Narrowed coronary arteries account for 90% of cardiac deaths. Plaque build up in the arteries, as well as scarring from a previous heart attack is found in two-thirds of victims. When sudden death occurs in young adults, such as athletes, there has been found to be other underlying abnormalities of the heart. Adrenaline released during intense physical or athletic activity can often trigger sudden death in the presence of congenital heart abnormalities. Heart medications, in addition to illegal drug abuse can cause sudden death.

Can Cardiac Arrest Be Reversed?

Cardiac arrest is reversible in most victims if CPR is administered right away. Every minute that passes without CPR,chances of survival are reduced by 7 to 10 percent. CPR can almost triple a cardiac arrest victim's chances of survival.

What are treatments for survivors?

Survivors are at risk for a second episode if underlying heart disease exists. Other possible causes include insufficient blood flow to the heart (ischemia) and abnormal heart rhythms (dysrythmias).

Diagnostic Tests and Treatment:

• Cardiac catheterization


• Electrophysiologic tests


• Coronary artery bypass surgery


• Balloon angioplasty or PCI (PTCA)


• Antiarrhythmic medicine


• Implantable cardioverter / defibrillator


• Implantable pacemaker


• Heart transplant

Sudden cardiac death due to cardiac arrest is a major consideration in the treatment of heart disease. It is importantthat all get trained in CPR in the event that a friend, loved one, or a complete stranger may need you to come to the rescue.

by Barb Hicks RN/LMT