A most fantastic survival story came through the doors of the CBMH Trauma & Emergency Unit recently, largely thanks to early and effective CPR. An elderly gentleman collapsed whilst at a party, and his son (a certified CPR instructor and local business owner) immediately commenced CPR. Paramedics where quick to respond to the scene and assisted in the resuscitation efforts, obtaining a return of spontaneous circulation at the scene.
Paramedics reported battling a lethal and reoccurring rhythm know as Ventricular Fibrillation, and through appropriate and expert management arrived at the ER with a perfusing rhythm. The patient was immediately seen to by the ER Dr's on duty and admitted to ICU.
It later transpired that the gentleman in question was awaiting a heart on the hart transplant list. It is our pleasure to report that he has since received his donor heart, and is currently recovering in the ICU post a successful transplant after being successfully resuscitated out of hospital! |
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It cannot be over emphasized that the immediate initiation of CPR by the patients son resulted in the successful resuscitation. Early effective CPR and the initiation of post resuscitation care are the cornerstones of every successful resuscitation. Our thanks and praise go out to the very brave and fast acting, quick thinking CPR instructor who helped save a life. Congratulations!
A hart awaiting transplantation
An Injury and Prevention Awareness Project brought to you by Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital Trauma & Emergency Centre.