Technology
Taser vs Cardiac Rescue: Understanding the Limitations
Taser vs Cardiac Rescue: Understanding the Limitations
In an emergency situation, such as a heart attack or cardiac arrest, knowing which measures to take can be crucial. Many people wonder if Taser can be used as a cardiac rescue tool. However, the reality is quite different. This article explains why a Taser is not suitable for cardiac rescue and provides information on the appropriate actions to take.
How Does a Taser Work?
A Taser works by sending a controlled electrical charge through the body, which temporarily disrupts muscle function. The key source of confusion comes from the belief that a Taser can deliver a significant electrical charge, similar to a cardiac defibrillator. In reality, the energy delivered by a Taser is minimal at around 0.07 joules per pulse.
In contrast, a cardiac defibrillator delivers much more energy, typically ranging from 150-400 joules per pulse. The defibrillator is designed to provide a massive electric shock to the heart to reset its rhythm, while a Taser is designed to immobilize a person by disrupting muscle function temporarily. Delivering the same level of energy as a defibrillator would be extremely dangerous and likely fatal, making Taser unsuitable for such medical emergencies.
Understanding Cardiac Emergencies
A heart attack is caused when blood vessels supplying the heart become blocked. This blockage deprives the heart muscle of oxygen, causing it to struggle to function. The pain associated with a heart attack is a result of the muscle being deprived of oxygen, not because of electrical impulses. While a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, they are different conditions.
During a cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating effectively or stops altogether. In such situations, a cardiac defibrillator is used to deliver a sudden, powerful electrical shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. A Taser is not designed for this and lacks the precision needed to deliver the correct amount of energy to the heart.
Why Taser is Not Suitable for Cardiac Rescue
There are several reasons why Taser is not suitable as a cardiac rescue tool:
Precision Application: A defibrillator requires precise application of electricity, matched to the patient's heart rhythm, which a Taser cannot achieve. Supervised Administration: A Taser is intended for use on a conscious patient, whereas during cardiac arrest, the patient is not conscious and cannot operate the device. An external rescuer would need to apply the Taser correctly, which is challenging and risky. Energy and Placement: The energy required to restart the heart is far more than a Taser can provide, and the placement of the Taser probes would be critical, making random shots ineffective.What to Do During a Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest
If you or someone around you is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and discomfort in the back, neck, jaw, or arms, the first step is to call 911 immediately. While waiting for medical help, instruct the person to remain calm and chew an aspirin if available (325 mg or four chewable baby aspirin 81 mg each).
If the person is in cardiac arrest, a bystander should call 911 and begin CPR. Chest compressions are critical as they help maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until medical help arrives.
Conclusion
Understanding the limitations of tools like a Taser is crucial during cardiac emergencies. A Taser is designed to immobilize, not to save lives in medical situations. The appropriate measures include calling emergency services, administering aspirin, and performing CPR if trained. Taking a CPR course can provide valuable knowledge and skills to potentially save a life.