Final answer:
Syncope or SCD from ventricular arrhythmias are treated with defibrillation or cardioversion. Bradycardia treatment depends on the cause and may involve a pacemaker. Prompt intervention is crucial for survival and preventing brain death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients who experience syncope (fainting) or Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) due to ventricular arrhythmias require immediate medical attention. Ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, are critical conditions where the heart beats in an uncoordinated or rapid manner, inhibiting effective blood pumping. Treatment often includes the administration of cardioversion or defibrillation, which apply a controlled electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm. In some cases, medication such as blood thinners may be prescribed to reduce the risk of further complications.
If bradycardia (slow heart rate) is identified as an underlying issue, treatments could range from lifestyle changes to the use of a pacemaker, depending on the cause. Causes of bradycardia can be intrinsic, such as SA or AV node abnormalities, or extrinsic, like metabolic disorders or drug interactions. Identifying the precise cause is crucial for effective treatment. For ventricular fibrillation, which can quickly lead to brain death if untreated, the most common intervention is defibrillation using external automated defibrillators (EADs) readily available in public spaces.