Cardiac Arrest Emergency Response: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively, leading to circulatory failure and a lack of oxygenated blood flow to vital organs. This life-threatening condition requires immediate intervention to increase the chances of survival.

Recognizing Cardiac Arrest

When you encounter someone who has collapsed, the first step is to check for responsiveness. Call out loudly near both ears and gently shake the person's shoulders. If there is no response, immediately activate the emergency medical system by calling 120 or your local emergency number.

Initiating CPR

If you are a trained professional, you may check for a pulse in the carotid artery while observing for normal breathing. However, for untrained bystanders, it is recommended to begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately if the person is not breathing normally. In most cases, this indicates that the heart has stopped beating effectively.

Proper Chest Compression Technique

Place the heel of one hand on the lower third of the sternum, and place the other hand on top, interlocking your fingers. Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly above your hands. Compress the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a depth of at least 5 to 6 centimeters. Each cycle of CPR consists of 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, known as the 30:2 ratio.

Effective Rescue Breathing

Before giving rescue breaths, ensure the airway is clear by removing any visible obstructions, such as secretions or loose dentures. Use the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver to open the airway, unless there is a suspected spinal injury, in which case the jaw-thrust maneuver should be used instead. Each breath should last about one second and cause the chest to rise visibly.

Switching Rescuers and Waiting for Help

After approximately two minutes of CPR (about five cycles), the rescuer may become fatigued. If another person is available, they should take over compressions to maintain the quality of CPR. Continue performing CPR until professional medical help arrives or the person shows signs of regaining consciousness.