There are a lot of diseases, disorders and conditions prevalent in the world and cardiac arrest is one of them. Cardiac arrest is a state which is characterised as abrupt loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness. So what can you do if you see someone in that state even if you aren't linked to the field of medicine?
The answer lies in Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it is a technique to buy time; by ensuring the brain and other essential organs receive oxygenated blood until further aid can be provided. To essentially help the heart to keep beating inside the body. It is life-saving and can be performed with ease.
Here are some signs to look for to realise that an individual is in need of CPR. The person in question isn't breathing, is unconscious/unresponsive. If you see a person in that state, you should check for pulse specifically the carotid pulse which is located besides the windpipe on the neck: press your first and middle finger to the side of their neck, just underneath their jaw and besides their windpipe. This should be done for a minimum of five seconds and maximum of ten seconds. In case a pulse has not been detected, start with CPR.
Before starting with CPR, ask someone around you for help and ask them to call emergency services such as ambulance.
Next, lay the person on their back and open their airways by tilting their head back, slightly lifting up their chin and opening their mouth. After this, clasp one hand of yours on top of the other tightly and push the heel of the hands on the sternum (breast bone) located in between the two nipples but slightly below the nipples. Your shoulders should be directly over the hands and the elbows are to be locked. The chest compressions should be at least 2-2.5 inches deep (5-6 cm).
One cycle comprises of 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths. In one minute, 120 chest compressions should be performed. Keep performing CPR until emergency services arrive and help the individual.
CPR is life saving. People in schools, colleges, universities, offices should be given its training and everyone can make a difference in their community.