Pulseless electrical activity or PEA (also known by the older terms electromechanical dissociation) refers to a cardiac arrest situation in which a heart rhythm is observed on the electrocardiogram that should be producing a pulse, but is not. Under normal circumstances, electrical activation of muscle cells precedes mechanical contraction of the heart (known as electromechanical coupling). In PEA, there is electrical activity, but the heart either does not contract or there are other reasons why this results in an insufficient cardiac output to generate a pulse and supply blood to the organs.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the first treatment for PEA, while potential underlying causes are identified and treated. Various drugs may be administered.
Read more about Pulseless Electrical Activity: Signs and Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
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