[Semiautomated defibrillator. Experiences with the use in ambulances in a rural district]

Early defibrillation has been shown to be the single most effective intervention in resuscitation from sudden cardiac death. The new semi-automated defibrillators are safe and easy to use and are effective and precise instruments for interpreting cardiac rhythm. In our rural area, ambulance staff received six hours training in the use of a semi-automated defibrillator (Heartstart 2000, Laerdal Medical) before the apparatus was installed in the ambulance. During the first year after installation, eight cases of cardiac arrest were treated by the ambulance staff. Four patients received defibrillation, two of whom were resuscitated successfully. Increased local interest in treatment of cardiac arrest, including increased awareness of the need to provide early resuscitation, has strengthened the chain of response, where the procurement of a semi-automated defibrillator represents a link that seems to have improved the prognosis for patients with cardiac arrest in our district.