Definition of Lethal Arrhythmias

Lethal Arrhythmias

Lethal arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively and will cause death within minutes if not treated. The most important are ventricular fibrillation (chaotic, disorganized electrical activity) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, both of which produce no effective pulse.

These shockable rhythms are treated with immediate defibrillation combined with high-quality CPR. Other rhythms associated with cardiac arrest, such as asystole and pulseless electrical activity, are non-shockable and require CPR, epinephrine, and correction of reversible causes. Rapid recognition of the rhythm and the correct response is the central focus of advanced life support training.

CPR Certification Labs provides hands-on, American Heart Association–aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification training to help providers master these life-saving skills.

Medical Definition & Meaning

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Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

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