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DEFIBRILLATOR APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Observe the following guidelines to ensure successful and safe defibrillation. Otherwise the lives of the patient, the user
and bystanders are in danger.
WARNING: Defibrillating a patient with normal heart rhythm may induce ventricular fibrillation.
WARNING: Position the patient flat on a hard surface where he is electrically insulated. The patient must not be allowed
to come into contact with metal parts to prevent unwanted pathways for the defibrillation current which may endanger the
assistants. For the same reason, do not position the patient on wet ground (rain, accident in swimming pool).
WARNING: Do not allow the defibrillation electrodes to come into contact with other electrodes or metal parts which are
in contact with the patient.
WARNING: The patient's chest must be dry, because moisture can cause unwanted pathways for the defibrillation
current. After use of flammable skin cleansing agents, wait until they have completely dried.
WARNING: The operator and all assistants must be briefed regarding the preparations for and execution of defibrillation.
All tasks must be clearly assigned.
•
Immediately prior to the shock: interrupt heart massage and artificial respiration, disconnect tube connections,
and warn bystanders.
•
Ensure that no conductive connection between the patient and bystanders exists during defibrillation.
•
Before delivering the shock, verify that the charged and selected energies are the same.
WARNING: Shock Hazard
Always switch off the device before exchanging the defibrillation electrodes.
WARNING: Pacemaker Patients
Defibrillating a patient with an implanted pacemaker is likely to impair the pacemaker function or cause damage to the
pacemaker.
For this reason: - Select the smallest energy level possible for the application,
- Do not apply the defibrillation paddles in the vicinity of the pacemaker,
- Have an external pacemaker at hand,
- Check the implanted pacemaker for proper functioning as soon as possible after the shock.
WARNING: Equipment Damage
Disconnect transducers and devices that are not defibrillation-proof from the patient before delivering the shock.
WARNING: Equipment Damage
Do not defibrillate the patient with a second defibrillator, while defibrillation electrodes (paddles, pads) of the first device
are applied. If the use of a second defibrillator is inevitable, disconnect the electrodes from the first device or remove them
.
from the patient
2026116-001 Revision B
Responder™ 2000
Page 59
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