When the heart stops beating, it is said to be in cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. If a person experiences cardiac arrest, steps must be taken quickly to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the most common and effective way to restart a heart that has stopped beating. CPR is a combination of rescue breaths and chest compressions. Compressing the chest with the heel of one’s hand helps to circulate the blood and oxygen throughout the body. Rescue breaths are breaths of air that are pushed into the lungs, providing the body with oxygen.
Defibrillation
Defibrillation is a medical procedure that uses electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat. This is done by placing electrodes on the chest and sending an electrical shock to the heart. The shock stops the heart momentarily and then allows it to restart with a normal rhythm. This procedure is often used in combination with CPR.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a device that is surgically implanted in the chest. It is designed to detect an abnormal heart rhythm and then send an electric shock to restore the normal heart rhythm. An ICD is used for people who have a high risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Medications
Medications can also be used to restart a heart that has stopped beating. Medications such as epinephrine and amiodarone can be injected into the body to help restart the heart. These medications are usually used in combination with CPR and defibrillation.
In summary, a heart can be restarted if it stops beating. CPR is the most common and effective way to restart a heart, but other procedures such as defibrillation and the use of medications can also be used. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator is also an option for people who have a high risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
