[at-l] CPR Useless?

[thornel at attglobal.net (W F Thorneloe)]

Regarding initial treatment of a pulseless lightning strike victim, Shane 
makes the suggestion of inducing deep pain with sternal rub, followed by a 
sharp blow to the chest.

I doubt the sternal rub is going to make any difference to the victim. The 
lack of pulse is often due to V fib or other nasty arrhythmia (where is 
Gary Buffington when we need him?) The chest blow delivers about 50 joules 
of energy that can convert a relatively healthy heart back into sinus 
rhythm. It looks and sounds bad, but feels oh-so-good when it works.

However, that victim may still go without respirations for a very 
uncomfortably long time. He needs his airway cleared and may need mouth to 
mouth initiated.

So, CPR has a low return on investment. You should plan on knowing how to 
do it and when to stop.

OrangeBug