What are Cardioprotected Zones?

Your heart is our priority at Clínica de la Vida.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, it is estimated that 17.9 million die annually due to pathologies related to the heart and blood vessels. Specifically in Venezuela, the Venezuelan Society of Cardiology estimates that 3 out of 10 people die from these same causes. This is why it is so important to make efforts to reduce this gap.

In order to reduce this number and create safe spaces for the general public, cardioprotected zones were created.

What are cardioprotected zones?

They are physical spaces that are equipped to respond to an eventuality such as cardiac arrest or sudden death. For an area to be considered cardioprotected, it must be equipped with automated external defibrillators (AED) and people trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The presence of both and the speed of emergency response is directly related to patient survival.

Why are cardioprotected zones important?

Cardioprotected zones provide rapid response to cardiac arrest (cessation of heart rhythm and consequent interruption of blood flow), which is crucial, since every minute that passes without cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) represents 10% less chance of survival. Coordinated responses lead to a greater chance of a favorable outcome.

When people feel prepared for possible eventualities, they generate an atmosphere of tranquility and safety among peers. That is why raising public awareness about how CPR should be performed and the crucial importance of cardioprotected areas is becoming more and more important every day.

What elements make up a cardioprotected zone?

– Automated external defibrillator (AED): this is a device that has wires (electrodes) that are connected to the victim’s chest, at which time it analyzes the heart rhythm and, depending on the findings, administers electric shocks in order to resuscitate the patient.

– Clear signage: An essential element of a cardioprotected area is clear signage of the location of the AED, instructions for use and emergency numbers to alert competent help.

– Trained personnel: it is essential to have personnel trained in CPR and AED use, especially personnel such as security guards, receptionists or maintenance employees.

– Regular maintenance: external defibrillators should receive regular maintenance to ensure proper operation.

Where can we find cardioprotected areas?

All public places with high turnover of people such as: airports, shopping malls, restaurants, subway stations, gyms, schools, office buildings, squares, amusement parks, among others.

What are the steps to follow to activate a cardioprotected zone?

When faced with a victim of cardiorespiratory arrest, the cardioprotected zone must be activated quickly and effectively to increase the chances of survival. The steps to follow in the event of cardiorespiratory arrest are as follows:

1. Secure the scene: it is important to make sure that you are in a safe area when assisting someone.

Identify the event: Cardio-respiratory arrests are characterized by sudden loss of consciousness, absence of pulse and shortness of breaths. The first thing to do when you find the person with loss of consciousness is to call him/her and try to wake him/her up; if you fail in the attempt, you should proceed to check the pulse and respirations. If they are absent, continue with the next step.

3. Ask for help and alert the emergency services: it is important to ask for help to people nearby, ask them to call immediately to the relevant emergency numbers.

4. Start CPR: Start chest compressions as soon as possible, 30 compressions interspersed with 2 rescue breaths.

5. Locate the AED: you can ask one of the witnesses to locate the AED or look for it yourself, it is usually marked with a green or orange cross.

6. Activate the device: once located, take it and place it on one side of the victim of cardiorespiratory arrest, turn on the AED and follow the voice instructions dictated by the device.

7. Analyze the heart rhythm: the AED will automatically analyze the person’s heart rhythm and tell you if an electric shock is necessary.

8. Deliver the shock: If the AED indicates that a shock is needed, make sure no one is touching the person and follow the instructions on the device.

9: Continue CPR: After delivering the shock, continue to perform CPR until health care personnel arrive.

We can all contribute to cardioprotected areas and increase the chances of victims of cardiopulmonary arrest. That is why Clínica Santiago de León assumes this commitment by constantly training its personnel in the use of automatic external defibrillators and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Within our facilities we have strategic cardioprotected areas to guarantee the security and protection of each one of our patients in a constant way.

Schedule your appointment today in our medical service specialized in Cardiology in Caracas with the best trained professionals in matters of the heart.

Schedule your appointment today:

+58 4122297781

Hola@csleon.com

0212.308.1900 Op 2