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Warning-sign checks

Ventricular fibrillation: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services immediately if someone suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, or is not breathing normally.

    Begin CPR and send someone to get an AED if one is available.

    Follow the AED prompts and continue until emergency professionals take over or the person begins to show clear signs of life.

    Someone who has survived VF should seek emergency help for fainting, severe chest discomfort, major breathing difficulty, repeated ICD shocks, or an ICD shock followed by ongoing symptoms.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    A single ICD shock without continuing symptoms still requires prompt contact according to the person's device-care plan.

    New palpitations, dizziness, near-fainting, medicine side effects, or changes around an ICD site should be discussed promptly with the healthcare team.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine cardiology and device appointments remain important even when the person feels well.

The article also says

Do not assume that gasping means the person is breathing normally.

Do not delay CPR while trying to find a pulse if you are not trained to do so.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ventricular fibrillation. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.