Which of the following are considered types of cardiac arrest?

Which of the following are considered types of cardiac arrest?

• A. Asystole and synchronous electrical activity
• B. Ventricular tachycardia and bradycardia
• C. Cardiac standstill and pulseless electrical activity (PEA)
• D. Myocardial infarction and stroke

Answer: (C)

Cardiac arrest refers to a sudden loss of heart function, leading to a cessation of effective blood circulation and, subsequently, a lack of perfusion to vital organs. The correct answer highlights two specific conditions that are recognized as types of cardiac arrest: cardiac standstill and pulseless electrical activity (PEA).

Cardiac standstill, often referred to as asystole, is a state where there is no electrical activity in the heart, resulting in a complete absence of cardiac output. This is a critical condition that requires immediate intervention.

Pulseless electrical activity (PEA) occurs when there is organized electrical activity visible on an electrocardiogram, but this activity does not produce a pulse or effective cardiac output. It represents a state where the heart may be showing electrical signals but is unable to pump blood effectively, typically due to various underlying causes, such as hypovolemia or tension pneumothorax.

By identifying both conditions, this answer reflects a clear understanding of types that directly relate to cardiac arrest situations, emphasizing the need for rapid response and appropriate treatment in such life-threatening scenarios.