Cardiac arrest.

Cardiac arrest is easily recognized clinically and requires immediated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by well trained personnel. The importance of prophylaxis is emphasized in high risk patients. The ABC regime of CPR and the technique of blind defibrillation are recommended in the management of cardiac arrest. Good results may be expected with ventricular fibrillation associated with some correctable factor or myocardial infarction. With a satisfactory CPR technique and prompt resuscitation, the incidence of complications is low.