How to save someone from a cardiac arrest? Life-saving steps everyone must know

Cardiac arrest strikes suddenly, often without a warning. The very instant, the heart stops, and cuts off the blood flow to vital organs. Cardiac arrest is often fatal without immediate help. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) lead to 17.9 million deaths each year globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is responsible for approximately half of all these deaths. Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, SCD remains a leading cause of mortality globally. Knowing how to respond can mean the difference between life and death. Here are some life-saving steps that can help someone from a cardiac arrest.

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. As a result, blood flow to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs ceases. It can affect individuals with or without a history of heart disease. Cardiac arrest may strike without warning or present early signs. What makes it especially dangerous is its high fatality rate without immediate medical intervention.

No. Though people often mistake a cardiac arrest for a heart attack, they are not the same. A heart attack may cause cardiac arrest, but they are different conditions.

A heart attack is caused by a blockage of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle, usually by a blood clot. As a result, the heart muscles get damaged. A heart attack is a serious condition, and could even become fatal.

Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is caused when the electrical system of the heart malfunctions. The heart stops beating properly, and its ability to pump blood suddenly stops.

Cardiac arrest strikes without a warning. But people experiencing cardiac arrest may show the following signs.

• Fainting

• Heart palpitations

• Dizziness

• Lightheadedness

• Weakness

• No breathing or gasping for air

Some people also experience signs such as:

• Chest pain

• Nausea and vomiting

• Shortness of breath

If you see someone collapse, you have to act immediately. Every second counts. It could mean the difference between life and death.

• Check the person and shout to see if they respond. If there is no response, call emergency services immediately. Every minute without intervention reduces survival chances by about 10%.

• Start CPR: If you are untrained in full CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), do hands-only CPR. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the patient’s chest, with the other hand on top, fingers interlocked. Push hard and fast, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. Compress the chest at least 2 inches deep for adults, allowing full chest recoil between compressions. Continue this until emergency responders arrive or an AED is available.

• You should not stop CPR unless the person starts breathing normally or the responder arrives.

• If you are unsure about the CPR, communicate it with emergency services, and they can guide you.