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Carotid compression: Difference between revisions
→Risks and risk mitigation
Tag: 2017 source edit |
Tag: 2017 source edit |
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* Direct compression using the fingers or hands | * Direct compression using the fingers or hands | ||
== Risks | == Risks <!-- Describe the risks of this kink. --> == | ||
The major risks of carotid compression include: | The major risks of carotid compression include: | ||
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* Cardiac arrest (from the [[wikipedia:Carotid_sinus|carotid sinus reflex]]) | * Cardiac arrest (from the [[wikipedia:Carotid_sinus|carotid sinus reflex]]) | ||
It is critically important to recognize when unconsciousness occurs and immediately restore normal blood flow to the brain | === Risk mitigation === | ||
Even with advanced knowledge and training in specific techniques, carotid compression cannot be made completely safe. In general, techniques for carotid compression aim to apply the minimum pressure required to achieve the desired effect without compressing or stretching nearby airway or other vascular structures. | |||
It is critically important to recognize when unconsciousness occurs and immediately restore normal blood flow to the brain, as when restriction of flow is prolonged after consciousness is lost, the unconscious person will not have any further added experience, while the risk of permanent injury greatly increases. Recognition of the loss of consciousness from carotid compression is non-trivial. Often subjects will exhibit involuntary reflexes such as abnormal posturing and may keep their eyes open which may be misinterpreted as them not "being out" yet leading to prolonged compression. | |||
Loss of consciousness can occur very rapidly with limited warning. When this occurs, subjects will completely lose control of their bodies and must be prevented from falling. Furthermore, it is important that to carefully position the subject into an appropriate recovery position which does not obstruct the airway and facilitates restoration of blood flow to the brain. The individual should be laid down with their head on the ground. If consciousness does not immediately return, the legs should be elevated to promote additional blood flow to the brain. If the subject remains unconscious, the presence of pulses should be assessed and CPR may be required. | |||
When consciousness is regained, subjects may be extremely disoriented and should be prevented from accidentally injury themselves or others until they have fully recovered. | |||
Carotid compression should '''never''' be practiced when carotid plaques could be present due to the high risk of plaque dislodgement and embolic stroke. More than 50% of older adults (>60 years old) have some degree of carotid plaque formation. Middle-aged adults (40-60 years old) can develop carotid plaques, with higher prevalence among those with risk factors (hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular disease). | Carotid compression should '''never''' be practiced when carotid plaques could be present due to the high risk of plaque dislodgement and embolic stroke. More than 50% of older adults (>60 years old) have some degree of carotid plaque formation. Middle-aged adults (40-60 years old) can develop carotid plaques, with higher prevalence among those with risk factors (hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular disease). | ||