The term “heart-stopping” is often used to describe a feeling that’s exciting, electrifying, thrilling, fun, or even a little scary. An actual heart-stopping incident, however, is called cardiac arrest—and the words thrilling, exciting, fun, or electrifying don’t really come into play.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiac arrest describes an event in which the heart abruptly stops functioning. While cardiac arrest can sometimes result from underlying conditions and accompany symptoms like chest pain, it can also strike without any symptoms or warning. Familiarity with automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), knowledge of hands-only CPR, and knowing proper cardiac arrest first aid prepares you to act in a crisis—potentially increasing a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival by 100-200 percent.
Recognizing A Heart Attack
Both cardiac arrest and a heart attack affect the functions of the heart, but their symptoms and causes vary.
An Overview of a Heart Attack
Heart attacks result from blockages of the coronary arteries that transport blood to the heart from the rest of the body. This blockage causes circulation issues that prevent oxygen from reaching the heart. Oxygen deficiency may happen gradually or suddenly, but the heart doesn’t usually stop beating during a heart attack, though it can cause cardiac arrest.
First Aid for Heart Attack
The first aid response for heart attacks usually involves calling 911 immediately, then tending to the victim. Loosening tight clothing and laying the victim down in a comfortable position can ease pain until help arrives. If the victim is unconscious, start hands-only CPR immediately to maximize the victim’s chances of survival. If an AED is available nearby, use it—Be sure to follow its included instructions carefully.
An Overview of Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest occurs when electrical problems in the muscles and nervous system cause the heart to stop beating. If the heart stops entirely, lack of blood flow to the brain can cause loss of consciousness. Cardiac arrest can occur with or without warning. Cardiac arrest can be caused by several underlying conditions, including arrythmia, congenital heart defects, infection, and heart attack.
First Aid for Cardiac Arrest
First aid for cardiac arrest is slightly different than first aid for a heart attack. First aid for a heart attack calls for a responder to call 911 and stay with a victim until help arrives, only using CPR if the victim falls unconscious. In contrast, a cardiac arrest event is urgent and immediate.
AED Training for Emergencies
Another effective first aid for cardiac arrest tool is an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). These machines can be found on walls in many public spaces and are proven lifesavers. An AED should be used when a person is unresponsive without a pulse or has a life-threatening irregular heartbeat, isn’t breathing, or is gasping for breath.
AEDs work by analyzing the affected person’s current heart rhythm. If an abnormal beat is detected, the AED delivers an electric shock that goes through the heart. This shock can restore the correct heart rhythm and potentially save the victim’s life.
Help Save Lives with Specialized Health and Safety
Because of the urgency and unpredictability of cardiac arrest, being prepared at all times is crucial to prevent unnecessary damage during a cardiac event. First aid certification for cardiac arrest, including hands-only CPR and AED application, could be the difference in the life of a friend, family member, or stranger.
Contact Specialized Health and Safety and get certified today!
