Cardiac arrest

Key signs:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Absence of normal breathing
  • Loss of pulse
  • Dilation of pupils

Management

The priority is to transfer the patient to hospital as an emergency.

  • Call for an ambulance.

Initiate BLS§, using 100% oxygen for ventilation.

Flow rate: 15 litres/minute

As for adults, with minor modifications to BLS for children§

For adults:

Initiate BLS§, using 100% oxygen for ventilation.

Flow rate: 15 litres/minute

For children:

As for adults, with minor modifications to BLS for children§


§Refer to Resuscitation Council (UK) guidance for details of BLS for adults and children.

  • Where a defibrillator is available, carry out early defibrillation.*

*In August 2014 the Scottish Government commenced roll-out of defibrillators to NHS dental practices in Scotland. All dental teams should be trained in the use of these devices.