Do Movies Accurately Portray Defibrillator Use in Cardiac Emergencies?

Movies often dramatize the use of defibrillators, but they don't always portray their proper use accurately. This article aims to highlight some common misconceptions and inaccuracies, and provide practical guidance on the correct use of defibrillators in real-life cardiac emergencies.

Immediate Action

One of the most misleading aspects of defibrillator use in films is the immediate administration of defibrillation without a proper assessment of the patient's condition. In reality, a defibrillator should only be used when a person is in a specific type of cardiac arrest, namely Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) or Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT). These conditions are not depicted correctly in many movies, leading to significant misunderstandings about proper defibrillator use.

Shocking Technique

Another common pitfall in film portrayals is the lack of adherence to safety protocols. Characters are often shown using defibrillators without ensuring that no one is touching the patient, which can result in injury to bystanders or the rescuer. Proper use requires the rescuer to check that the area is clear before delivering a shock. This safety measure is often missing in dramatic scenes.

Single Shock

Movies frequently depict a single shock resulting in immediate revival. However, in practice, multiple shocks may be required, and effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be administered between shocks. The multi-step resuscitation process in real-life cardiac emergencies is often simplified or omitted in film for dramatic effect.

Device Familiarity

Characters in films often appear to operate defibrillators with little or no training, which is misleading. While automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are designed for public use and provide voice prompts, proper training can significantly improve outcomes. Field personnel and medical professionals are often depicted using defibrillators without the necessary training, which can lead to unsafe and ineffective usage.

Dramatic Timing

The urgency and drama of defibrillation scenes are often exaggerated for the sake of storytelling. In reality, resuscitation efforts can take time and involve multiple steps beyond just defibrillation. This simplification in films can mislead viewers about the actual procedures and timelines involved in cardiac arrest resuscitation.

Correct Usage Guidelines

It is important to understand when and how a defibrillator should be used. According to current guidelines, a defibrillator should be used in two circumstances: Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) and Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT).

Action Steps

Recognize the specific rhythm on the monitor screen for VF or VT. Start or continue CPR. Attach defibrillator pads if they are not already in place. Charge the defibrillator while the CPR is ongoing. If using a non-closed circuit system, ensure the oxygen is removed. Remove your hands from the patient's chest. Deliver a shock. Continue CPR, ideally within 5 seconds of delivering the shock.

Historical Changes in Guidelines

Guidelines for defibrillator use have evolved over time. What was correct a decade ago may no longer be the case. For example, in the past, paddles were used without the use of coupling gel, which could have incurred significant burns. Nowadays, gel pads are recommended to ensure better contact and prevent burns.

Conclusion

While defibrillators are crucial in real-life cardiac emergencies, their portrayal in movies tends to simplify or dramatize their use. This often leads to misconceptions about how defibrillators should be properly employed. Proper training and understanding of guidelines are essential to ensure effective and safe resuscitation efforts.

Keywords

defibrillator cardiac arrest CPR

Images

Ventricular Fibrillation (VF):

Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT):