Monitor/Defibrillator (Zoll)

Posted on: April 8, 2025, by :

 

Key Operational Features of ZOLL Defibrillators: 

  • Defibrillation: Delivers unsynchronized electrical shocks to terminate life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.  
  • Synchronized Cardioversion: Provides synchronized shocks timed with the R-wave of the ECG to correct arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia.  
  • External (Transcutaneous) Pacing: Offers non-invasive pacing for patients with symptomatic bradycardia or as a bridge to permanent pacing.  

Steps for Defibrillation: 

  1. Power On the Defibrillator: Turn the selector switch to the “Defib” mode.  
  1. Attach Electrodes/Pads: 
  • Place adhesive pads on the patient’s bare chest:  
  • One pad below the right clavicle. 
  • The other on the left lateral chest, mid-axillary line. 
  1. Charge the Defibrillator: 
  • Select the appropriate energy level (e.g., 200 joules for adults).  
  • Press the “Charge” button; wait until the device indicates it’s ready.  
  1. Deliver the Shock: 
  • Ensure everyone is clear of the patient. 
  • Press the “Shock” button to administer the shock.  
  1. Resume CPR: Immediately continue chest compressions for two minutes before re-assessing the rhythm.  

Steps for Synchronized Cardioversion: 

  1. Power On the Defibrillator: Set the selector switch to “Defib” mode.  
  1. Attach Electrodes/Pads: Place pads as described above.  
  1. Activate Sync Mode: 
  • Press the “Sync” button; verify that markers appear above each R-wave on the ECG display.  
  1. Select Energy Level: 
  • Choose the appropriate joules based on the arrhythmia and patient size.  
  1. Charge and Deliver Shock: 
  • Press “Charge” and wait for the ready prompt.  
  • Ensure clear surroundings.  
  • Press “Shock” to deliver the synchronized shock.  
  1. Reassess Patient: Check rhythm and patient status; repeat if necessary. 

Steps for External Pacing: 

  1. Power On the Defibrillator: Turn the selector switch to “Pacer” mode.  
  1. Attach Electrodes/Pads: Place pads on the patient’s chest as previously described.  
  1. Set Pacing Parameters: 
  • Rate: Adjust to desired beats per minute (typically starting at 60-80 bpm).  
  • Current: Start at a low milliampere (mA) setting and gradually increase until electrical capture is achieved (evidenced by widened QRS complexes and corresponding pulses).  
  1. Assess Mechanical Capture: 
  • Check for a palpable pulse corresponding with paced rhythm.  
  • Monitor patient’s blood pressure and overall condition.  
  1. Monitor and Adjust: 
  • Continuously observe ECG and patient response.  
  • Adjust pacing rate and current as needed for optimal patient stability. 

Using the ZOLL Defibrillator in AED Mode 

✅ Purpose: 
When set to AED mode, the ZOLL defibrillator analyzes the patient’s heart rhythm and prompts the user to deliver a shock only if indicated—ideal for BLS providers or during pediatric codes requiring quick use. 

✅ Steps for Using ZOLL as an AED: 

1. Power On the Device 

  • Turn the selector knob to “AED” mode (if model has dedicated AED setting) or press the power button and activate AED mode if prompted. 

2. Attach the Electrode Pads 

  • Expose the chest and ensure it is dry. 
  • Apply pads as shown on the diagrams (on the pads themselves): 
  • Anterior-Posterior (preferred for small children): 
  • Anterior-Lateral (for larger children/adolescents): 
  • Use pediatric pads/attenuator if available for children <8 years or <25 kg. 

3. Follow the AED Voice and Screen Prompts 

  • ZOLL devices provide clear audio and visual instructions. 
  • The machine will analyze the rhythm automatically—ensure no one is touching the patient. 

4. If Shock is Advised: 

  • The machine will charge automatically. 
  • LOUDLY state “CLEAR” and make sure no one is touching the patient. 
  • Press the “Shock” button when prompted. 

5. Resume Chest Compressions Immediately 

  • After shock delivery, start CPR right away (2 minutes of chest compressions). 
  • The AED will prompt you when to stop for the next rhythm analysis. 

✅ Special Pediatric Considerations: 

  • Use pediatric pads/energy attenuator if available for children under 8 years. 
  • If only adult pads are available, use them—it is better to shock than delay. 
  • Pads should never touch each other; place anterior-posterior if chest size is too small. 

✅ Safety Reminders: 

  • Do not use in standing water or if chest is wet—dry thoroughly first. 
  • Remove medication patches before pad placement. 
  • Ensure proper pad placement for effective shock delivery. 

✅ Optional Video Resource: 

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