Sudden Cardiac Arrest: How It Is Diagnosed And What To Do Next

When a person suddenly collapses and becomes unresponsive, one of the first steps in diagnosing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is to check for loss of consciousness and the absence of a pulse. Medical professionals typically assess major arteries such as the carotid artery in the neck or the femoral artery in the groin. If no pulse is detected and the heart's sounds are absent upon auscultation, this strongly indicates cardiac arrest.

Confirming The Diagnosis With Advanced Tools

In medical settings where equipment is available, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to confirm the diagnosis. In cases of cardiac arrest, the ECG will show no electrical activity in the heart, confirming the absence of a heartbeat. This diagnostic step is crucial for ensuring accurate and timely treatment.

Immediate Response Is Critical

Once sudden cardiac arrest is diagnosed, immediate action is essential. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should begin within seconds, starting with high-quality chest compressions. These compressions must be performed at the correct depth and rate to effectively circulate blood and oxygen to vital organs.

Combining Compressions With Rescue Breathing

While chest compressions are the foundation of CPR, they should be combined with rescue breathing when possible. This combination helps maintain oxygen levels in the blood and increases the chances of successful resuscitation. Throughout the process, it is important to continuously monitor the patient for any signs of regaining consciousness or spontaneous breathing.

Identifying The Underlying Cause

As emergency care is being administered, healthcare providers must also work quickly to identify the underlying cause of the cardiac arrest. The most common triggers are related to heart conditions, particularly those involving the coronary arteries. One of the leading causes is myocardial infarction, or heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked.

Other potential causes include severe electrolyte imbalances, trauma, respiratory failure, or severe allergic reactions. Identifying and treating the root cause is essential for preventing recurrence and improving long-term outcomes for the patient.