what is pea medical term

The medical term "PEA" stands for Pulseless Electrical Activity. It is a serious heart condition characterized by the presence of organized electrical activity in the heart, as seen on an electrocardiogram (EKG), but without any corresponding mechanical heart contraction or palpable pulse. This means that although the heart's electrical system is functioning to some extent, the heart muscle does not contract effectively enough to pump blood, resulting in no detectable heartbeat or pulse. PEA is a form of cardiac arrest and can be caused by various underlying conditions such as heart attacks, trauma, hypoxia (low oxygen levels), electrolyte imbalances, or severe blood loss. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, typically cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and administration of medications like epinephrine. PEA is considered a "nonshockable" rhythm, meaning that defibrillation (electric shocks) is not effective in treating it. In summary, PEA means that there is electrical activity in the heart but the heart is not pumping blood, leading to the absence of a pulse and critically low blood circulation. Immediate medical intervention is essential to address the underlying cause and restore heart function. This definition and explanation are based on multiple medical sources and expert reviews.