Question 54 · LEK · Defibrillation
A patient with an implanted pacemaker fainted in the street. The arriving emergency team diagnosed cardiac arrest and the ECG monitor showed ventricular fibrillation. Should the rescuers perform defibrillation in this patient?
- A. no, the pacemaker should be disconnected first.
- B. yes, but it is recommended to place the electrodes in the ‘front-back’ position.
- C. no, defibrillation may destroy the pacemaker.
- D. yes, the presence of the pacemaker is irrelevant.
- E. yes, but shock energy should be lowered.
Hint
An implanted device never stops you from treating a shockable rhythm, but it does influence where you put the pads.
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