Community defibrillation in the Scottish Highlands.

Prompt defibrillation after cardiac arrest is necessary to save life. Inexpensive systems providing defibrillation facilities in the community of the Highlands have been devised, one for Inverness town practices, and one for rural practices. Both systems work by 'blind' defibrillation, once the clinical diagnosis of cardiac arrest is confirmed. Acute anti-arrhythmic drugs and intravenous infusions were not available. The systems functioned satisfactorily with general acceptance by the general practices concerned.