Early defibrillation is critical to survival in the adult chain of survival because it is the only effective treatment to restore a normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Without early defibrillation, the chaotic heart rhythm, typically ventricular fibrillation (VF), prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively to vital organs, leading to brain and organ damage and death. Survival probability decreases by 7-10% for every minute defibrillation is delayed, making quick defibrillation essential to save lives.
Why Early Defibrillation Matters
- Defibrillation delivers an electrical shock to reset the heart’s electrical activity, restoring a coordinated heartbeat and effective blood flow.
- The earlier the defibrillation is applied, the higher the chance of survival. If defibrillation occurs within the first few minutes, survival rates can be as high as 70% or more.
- Delays cause the heart rhythm to deteriorate from VF to asystole (no heartbeat), drastically reducing defibrillation success and survival rates.
Role in the Chain of Survival
- Early defibrillation is the most effective link in the chain, working alongside immediate CPR which keeps blood flowing until the heart can be restarted.
- Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) allow bystanders to provide early defibrillation quickly, even before emergency medical services arrive.
- Each minute without defibrillation reduces survival chances by about 10%, highlighting the urgency for rapid action.
In summary, early defibrillation significantly increases survival chances by quickly restoring a normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest, preventing irreversible brain and organ damage, and complementing CPR efforts in the chain of survival.
