What to Do If Someone Experiences Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a critical medical emergency that requires immediate action. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing the appropriate steps to take can save a life. Here’s what you should do if you witness someone experiencing SCA.
Recognize the Symptoms
The first step is to identify the signs of sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms may include:
- Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
- No pulse or breathing
- Unresponsiveness
It’s essential to act quickly, as every second counts.
Call for Emergency Help
Immediately dial emergency services (911 in the U.S.) if you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest. Provide clear information about the situation, including the location, and state that someone may need urgent medical help. Stay on the line to give further updates if necessary.
Start CPR
If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately:
- Place the person on a firm, flat surface.
- Perform chest compressions by placing your hands, one on top of the other, in the center of the person’s chest.
- Compress down hard and fast, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- Continue compressions until emergency help arrives or an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available.
Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
If an AED is accessible, use it as soon as possible. Here’s how to use it:
- Turn on the AED and follow the spoken or visual prompts.
- Attach the pads to the person’s bare chest as indicated.
- Make sure no one is touching the person and press the shock button when advised.
- Resume CPR immediately after the shock if advised by the AED.
Continue Until Help Arrives
Continue performing CPR and using the AED until emergency medical personnel arrive or the person starts to show signs of life. If you become too exhausted, try to find someone else to take over CPR if possible.
Post-Emergency Actions
Once help arrives, provide any information about what happened to emergency responders, including the time of the cardiac arrest and the actions you took. This information can be critical for the medical team.
Be Prepared for the Future
Consider taking a CPR and AED certification course. These skills can make a significant difference in an emergency and empower you to act confidently if someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest.
Swift action in the event of sudden cardiac arrest can be the difference between life and death. Stay informed, stay prepared, and know that your response can save lives.