Physio-Control LIFEPAK 20e - Manual (Page 12)

Preface
x LIFEPAK 20e Defibrillator/Monitor Operating Instructions
ABOUT NONINVASIVE PACING
A noninvasive pacemaker is a device that delivers an electrical stimulus to the heart, causing
cardiac depolarization and myocardial contraction. The energy is delivered through large
adhesive electrodes placed on the chest. In addition to noninvasive pacing, other supportive
measures may be necessary.
Among other factors, it is recognized that successful pacing of a patient is related to the length of
time between the onset of a dysrhythmia and the initiation of pacing. Rapid pacing and prompt
follow-up care are essential. The physiologic state of the patient may affect the likelihood of
successful pacing or of skeletal muscle activity. The failure to successfully pace a patient is not a
reliable indicator of pacemaker performance. Similarly, the patient’s muscular response to pacing
is not a reliable indicator of energy delivered. Refer to the booklet, Noninvasive Pacing: What You
Should Know for further information.
Indications
Noninvasive pacing is indicated for symptomatic bradycardia in patients with a pulse.
Contraindications
Noninvasive pacing is contraindicated for the treatment of ventricular fibrillation and asystole.
ABOUT SPO
2
MONITORING
A pulse oximeter is a noninvasive device that checks the saturation of oxygen in arterial blood
(SpO
2
). It uses an optical sensor that directs light through the patient’s finger and then measures
the received light with a detector. This received light is translated into a saturation percentage
and is displayed as an SpO
2
reading.
Indications
A pulse oximeter is indicated for use in any patient who is at risk of developing hypoxemia.
Contraindications
None known.
ABOUT ECG MONITORING
The ECG (electrocardiogram) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart. ECG monitoring
allows for identification and interpretation of cardiac rhythms or dysrhythmias and calculation of
heart rate. The ECG is obtained by placing either electrodes or paddles on the patient and allows
the heart’s electrical activity to be monitored and recorded.