defibrillators

[RichH]

I tend to favor Heartstart and the Laerdahl - the ''technology'' is now quite well ''mature'' and well regulated (FDA) so one brand or other doesnt really matter.
If noone onboard has a Hx of cardiac problems I woundnt personally recommend having one ''just in case''. It takes routine retraining and ''recertification'' (every few months) to keep your skills up to par; without the constant re-training those skills degrade very rapidly.
If you have several ''hundred'' on board, then it might make sense to have an AED onboard.

Here''s the problem: Unless the defibrillation is rapidly followed up with oxygen administration and very aggressive drug therapy, etc. etc., the outcome usually is "not very good".

Prevention is the best course.

(Been a paramedic, ACLS Instr., etc. for nearly 30 yrs.)

[kimberlite]

thanks for the info-
when it comes to offshore sailing-i am a belt and suspenders type of guy
thanks
eric
SM # 376 kimberlite

[capttb]

Might add pretty common these days for people who have cardiac problems of this nature to have Pacemaker/Defib devices implanted that can be quite reliable, I just saw an apparently very healthy 33 YO male with one. It is important for current physical exams by your MD, adequate supplies of any meds required by those aboard etc.

[kimberlite]

what meds for heart would you have on board?

[uri]

Well I belive here specially in Spain and possibly in Europe Furlex is the main furler....I had one in each boat and never had a problem just do the minimun maintenance.

[RichH]

Oxygen, Aspirin, Nitroglycerine ..... most all else is administered via intravenous route.

[jbarros]

and not that I thought it would ever need saying, but I know of an Exparamedic who acted as an object lesson. When you check to make sure everyones clear, that means dont be in a wet area with the subject or on a metal bench.

-- James

[capttb]

Eric, You mention being a belt & suspenders kind of person and I have that tendency myself. In thinking over our discussion I thought of a couple things that might serve you well.
1. CPR training - Other than CPR also ABC''s (airway, breathing, circulation,) & how to correct, always starting point for emergency medical care. Also Heimlich (sp?) and treatment for choking victims. American Heart Association, and Red Cross used to be licensing agencies they were slightly different, I know AHA still has classes not sure about RC. Used to be a short 4hr "heartsaver" class available but take a full 8 Hr. course if possible. Check with Public Relations people at local hospital, local Fire Dept., Community Colleges for classes.
2. First Aid Classes - If you haven''t already had some kind of first aid in military etc. classes available from Red Cross or EMT classes available at Community Colleges but may require more time than you have available.