You’re standing near someone that suddenly drops to the floor. Do you know what to do next? Experts agree if someone collapses unexpectedly, it is usually the result of sudden cardiac arrest. According to Today, 90% of those in sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital DO NOT survive!
Bystanders can increase the person’s chance of survival by doing chest compression only CPR. Celebs and influencers across the country are “lending a hand” to bring attention to the 3 Cs of “Hands-only CPR.” So, lend a hand!
CHECK. CALL. COMPRESS. in Sudden Cardiac Arrest
From the Sarver Heart Center, University of AZ, follow these three steps to perform Chest-Compression-Only Resuscitation. And if it’s a total stranger? No worry. The Good Samaritan Law protects you for taking action to save a life.
- Check for responsiveness – Shake the person and shout, “Are you OK?”
- Call – Direct someone to call 9-1-1 or make the call yourself if the person is unresponsive and struggling to breathe (gasping or snoring).
- Compress – Begin forceful chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute.
Position the victim back down on the floor. Place the heel of one hand on top of the other and place the heel of the bottom hand on the center of the victim’s chest. Lock your elbows and compress the chest forcefully. Make sure you lift up enough to let the chest recoil. A great way to keep the pace is to sing the BeeGee’s song, STAY’N ALIVE.
If an AED (automated external defibrillator) is available, turn the unit on and follow the voice prompts. If no AED is available, perform chest compressions continuously until the paramedics arrive. This is physically tiring, so if someone else is available, take turns after each 100 chest compressions.
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Living a healthy lifestyle
As far as the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your risk is the best strategy. These include talking to your doctor, regular heart diseases screening, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active.
