How to Resuscitate Asystole

Asystole is the complete lack of pulse and of output by the heart. It eventually occurs in all dying patients and is extremely serious. Treatment for asystole should be provided only by medical professionals, but CPR can be administered until they arrive.

Instructions

• 1

  Call an emergency professional once it has been determined that a person has no pulse and/or is not breathing.

• 2

  Perform CPR to maintain circulation even though the heart is stopped. CPR can be effective only if the person's airway is clear. Standard CPR calls for delivering three breaths mouth to mouth. Tilt the person's head back and pinch her nose. Breathe twice into her mouth. Place the palms of your hands in the middle of her breastbone and press down firmly and quickly 30 times. This entire series should be repeated until the person regains a pulse and is breathing on her own, or until help arrives.

• 3

  Let emergency medical professionals take over once they arrive. They should secure the airway of the person in danger with a breathing tube and pure oxygen. CPR will be delivered to maintain circulation if necessary.