How to Respond to Sudden Cardiac Arrest
When encountering a person who has suddenly collapsed, the first step is to assess the situation and determine whether they are experiencing cardiac arrest. Begin by performing a basic life support (BLS) evaluation—gently tap the person's shoulders and call out to them. If there is no response and you confirm the absence of a pulse in the carotid artery on the same side of the neck within 10 seconds, along with no signs of breathing, it is likely that the person is in cardiac arrest. At this point, activate the emergency response system immediately.
Emergency Actions Outside the Hospital
If the incident occurs outside a medical facility, it's crucial to call emergency services such as 911 or ask someone nearby to make the call. Simultaneously, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with chest compressions. Immediate action significantly increases the person's chances of survival during the critical early minutes.
Steps to Take Inside a Medical Facility
Within a hospital or clinical setting, notify the Rapid Response Team (RRT) immediately. Healthcare professionals will then perform advanced life support measures. Initiating high-quality chest compressions without delay is essential, and defibrillation should be carried out as soon as possible using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Understanding the CPR Sequence
In situations where a defibrillator is available, prioritize delivering a shock as quickly as possible. However, if an AED is not immediately accessible, start with 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths. This cycle should be repeated continuously until emergency medical services arrive or the person shows signs of regaining consciousness.
Why Immediate Action Matters
Time is of the essence when dealing with sudden cardiac arrest. Every minute without CPR or defibrillation reduces the victim's survival chances by about 7-10%. Bystander intervention before professional medical help arrives can be life-saving and greatly improves outcomes.