In the fast-paced world we live in, being equipped with basic first aid skills can make a significant difference in emergencies, especially those involving heart-related issues. Knowing what to do when someone is experiencing a heart attack or cardiac arrest can be life-saving. Here’s a quick guide to essential English heart first aid tips for everyday situations.
Recognizing a Heart Attack
The first step in providing effective heart first aid is recognizing the signs of a heart attack. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweat
- Dizziness or fainting
If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, it’s crucial to act quickly.
Calling for Help
Step 1: If you’re alone with the person, call emergency services immediately. If you’re with others, have someone call for help while you begin first aid.
Step 2: If the person is conscious and able to swallow, provide them with aspirin. Chew and swallow a 325 mg tablet if they do not have a known allergy to aspirin. This can help prevent blood clots from forming.
Performing CPR
If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):
- Check Responsiveness: Tap the person’s shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” If they do not respond, shout for help and call emergency services.
- Open the Airway: Tilt the person’s head back and lift their chin to open the airway.
- Check Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing. Place your ear close to the person’s mouth and nose and watch for chest movements.
- Start Chest Compressions: If the person is not breathing, place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest. Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers. Keep your elbows straight and position your shoulders directly over your hands.
- Compress: Push down hard and fast at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to rise completely between compressions.
- Give Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. Tilt the head back, lift the chin, and make a complete seal over the person’s mouth. Blow into their mouth for about one second, watching for the chest to rise.
- Continue CPR: Continue CPR until emergency medical help arrives or the person starts to breathe normally.
Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible. Follow the device’s instructions carefully.
Additional Tips
- Stay Calm: Remaining calm can help you stay focused and provide the best possible care.
- Keep Talking: If the person is conscious, reassure them and keep them calm.
- Do Not Give Medication: Do not give any medication, including nitroglycerin, unless instructed by emergency medical personnel.
- Do Not Move the Person: Avoid moving the person unless they are in immediate danger, such as being on fire or in a dangerous location.
Remember, these tips are a guide to help you in everyday situations. For comprehensive training, consider taking a first aid course that covers heart-related emergencies in detail. Being prepared can make all the difference in critical moments.