In an emergency situation, CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation can be a truly lifesaving technique. CPR is an important part of any first aid course, and it is something that everyone should know how to do. Why? Because CPR can provide the
proper CPR is performed with alternating chest compressions with mouth-to-mouth breathing. This process helps push oxygen into the lungs so that it can go to the brain and keep a person alive. The most common CPR technique that is taught at
CPR can be used in a vast array of different emergency situations. When someone has been drowning, for example, another person can perform CPR on them until the ambulance or other help gets there. A massive heart attack that has rendered a
The American Heart Association supports the establishment of programs to train and equip lay responders to activate the Chain of Survival and to use the AED in the event of a cardiac arrest. AEDs are commonly placed in public locations beca
Cardiac arrest strikes immediately and without warning. The victim becomes unresponsive suddenly and collapses. Typically, the victim does not respond when called and shaken gently. The breathing pattern is usually abnormal, and the victim m
AEDs are lightweight, portable devices containing a battery, capacitors, and electronic circuitry to analyze the cardiac rhythm and inform the operator when a defibrillation shock is needed. The adhesive electrode pads that are placed on th
To improve the prehospital care of victims of cardiac arrest, the American Heart Association has developed the Chain of Survival, wherein a sequence of interventions results in improved survival after a cardiac arrest. These steps include ea
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are safe to use. There are no reports of AEDs harming bystanders or users. Also, there are no reports of AEDs delivering inappropriate shocks. If someone is having sudden cardiac arrest, using an AED
AEDs are user-friendly devices that untrained bystanders can use to save the life of someone having SCA. Before using an AED, check for puddles or water near the person who is unconscious. Move him or her to a dry area, and stay away from w
Before using an automated external defibrillator (AED) on someone who you think is having sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), check him or her. If you see a person suddenly collapse and pass out, or if you find a person already unconscious, confir
A human brain can survive for only an average of five minutes without oxygen before it becomes permanently damaged. When used properly, CPR can dramatically increase a persons chances of making a full and complete recovery, even after a ser
A pacemaker is a small device thats placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms. This device uses electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. Pacemakers are used to treat arrhythmias (ah-RITH-me
Having the confidence to respond to a cardiac arrest with an AED can mean the difference between life and death. Reports of AED success stories regularly appear in the media here are just some examples of how AEDs can save lives. AED helps
Your heart has its own internal electrical system that controls the rate and rhythm of your heartbeat. With each heartbeat, an electrical signal spreads from the top of your heart to the bottom. As the signal travels, it causes the heart to
AEDs – The only effective intervention for sudden cardiac arrest