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    The content on this page is not current guidance and is only for the purposes of the consultation process.

    Indications and current treatment

    Cardiac arrest is when normal blood circulation suddenly stops because the heart fails to contract effectively. The underlying abnormal cardiac rhythms most commonly associated with cardiac arrest are ventricular fibrillation (VF), asystole, pulseless electrical activity, and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT). Cardiac arrest leads to loss of consciousness, respiratory failure and, ultimately, death.

    Treatment for cardiac arrest includes immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation to restore the circulation and prevent subsequent brain injury. Defibrillation may be used to treat VF and pulseless VT rhythms. Standard care may also include mechanical ventilation, and drugs such as adrenaline and amiodarone. Resuscitation Council UK's 2021 resuscitation guidelines contain guidance on basic and advanced life support.

    Temperature control may also be described as targeted temperature management.