How to Respond to Cardiac Arrest

When encountering someone experiencing cardiac arrest, it's crucial to act quickly and effectively. Begin by calling emergency services immediately, such as dialing 120, and start performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) without delay. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you respond appropriately:

Step 1: Assess the Situation and Position the Patient

First, ensure the environment is safe for both you and the patient. Lay the person flat on their back on a firm surface. Gently tap or shake the person and shout to check for responsiveness. If there's no response, give two sharp thrusts to the center of the chest to potentially restore heart function. If the person regains consciousness, stop and wait for the ambulance to arrive.

Step 2: Perform Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths

If the person remains unresponsive, begin chest compressions immediately. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, at the midpoint between the nipples, and place your other hand on top. Push down firmly and smoothly to a depth of 3–5 centimeters at a rate of at least 100 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, provide two rescue breaths if you're trained to do so. Continue this cycle until emergency help arrives or the person shows signs of recovery.

Important Tips for Effective CPR

Maintain a steady rhythm during compressions and avoid leaning on the chest between pushes. If you're not trained in rescue breathing, continue with hands-only CPR. It's also essential to check the person's responsiveness periodically during the process to determine if breathing or consciousness has returned.

Step 3: Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) If Available

If the location where the incident occurs has access to an automated external defibrillator (AED), use it as soon as possible. An AED can analyze the heart's rhythm and deliver a shock if needed, which may restore a normal heartbeat. Follow the voice prompts provided by the AED and continue CPR if the device advises it.

Final Thoughts

Time is critical during a cardiac arrest situation. Starting CPR within the first few minutes can significantly increase the chances of survival. Even if you're not a medical professional, your immediate actions can make a life-saving difference. Consider taking a CPR certification course to be better prepared for emergencies.