By Kyra Cummings

October is Sudden Cardiac Awareness Month. Take this opportunity to learn more about sudden cardiac arrest to help yourself and others.

CARDIAC ARREST

Cardiac arrest is caused by the heart beat stopping or beating in way that compromises the blood circulation to the brain and vital organs. Cardiac arrest can happen suddenly and can happen in people who are healthy with no cardiovascular conditions. Cardiac arrest happens rapidly and requires immediate attention to increase the chances at survival.

STEPS YOU CAN TAKE IN AN EMERGENCY

1. Assess the scene, ask for consent, and put on personal protection equipment (PPE), if available
2. Check if the person is not responsive, breathing, or only gasping
3. If the person is not responsive and not breathing, emergency medical treatment is needed
4. Call 911 and get available equipment including an automated defibrillator (AED)
5. Administer care by starting chest compressions

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest

A heart attack is caused by blockages in blood vessels that supply oxygen to the heart. Those who experience a heart attack may feel shortness of breath and fatigue. If left untreated, a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops or beats too inadequaltely to circulate blood to the brain and vital organs. 

Chest Compressions

Once a person is in cardiac arrest, chest compressions should be started immediately for the best chance of survival. Every second counts, so don’t worry about causing injuries to the ribs or accidently performing compressions on someone who is breathing. It is better to just begin compressions and keep the blood circulating to increase chances for survival. The ribs will heal, and there is no life threatening impacts on performing chest compressions on someone who is breathing.

RESOURCES

CPR/AED Classes

The Red Cross offers CPR/AED classes. Join the 4.6 million people who have already participated in Red Cross lifesaving training. Visit our website for more info.

Red Cross First Aid App

Download the American Red Cross’s free First Aid mobile app and stay updated on life-saving skills.You can download the app in the App Store, Google Play, or text “GETFIRST” to 90999.