Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an unexpected and life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops beating, causing a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. This can lead to death in minutes if not treated immediately. Knowing how to respond during such an emergency is critical and could save a life.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
SCA occurs when there is a malfunction in the heart’s electrical system, causing the heart to stop beating effectively. This is different from a heart attack, which is caused by blocked blood vessels. While a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, they are not the same.

Signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest:

– Sudden collapse.
– No breathing or abnormal breathing (gasping).
– Loss of consciousness.
– No pulse.

Immediate Actions to Take During Sudden Cardiac Arrest

1. Call Emergency Services
The first thing to do in case of SCA is to call your local emergency number (in India, dial 108). Be sure to provide the operator with the following details:

– The exact location of the incident.
– The condition of the person (unresponsive, not breathing, etc.).
– Any actions you’re taking, such as performing CPR.

The quicker you call, the faster emergency responders can arrive.

2. Check for Responsiveness and Breathing
Gently tap the person and ask if they are okay.
If they do not respond, check if they are breathing. If they are not breathing, proceed with CPR immediately.

3. Perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR is the most vital action to take when someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest. CPR helps maintain blood circulation to the brain and other vital organs.

How to Perform CPR:

– Place the person on their back on a hard surface.
– Kneel beside the person and place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest.
– Place your other hand on top of the first hand and interlace your fingers.
– Push hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
– Press down at least 2 inches deep.
– Allow the chest to rise fully between compressions, but do not lift your hands off the chest completely.

If you are trained in CPR, after 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. If not, continue chest compressions until help arrives.

4. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
An AED is a device that can shock the heart back into a normal rhythm. Most public spaces, such as shopping malls and airports, are equipped with AEDs.

How to Use an AED:

– Turn on the AED and follow the prompts.
– Attach the electrode pads to the person’s bare chest as shown in the AED manual.
– Ensure no one is touching the person when the device analyzes their heart rhythm.
– If instructed by the AED, deliver a shock and resume CPR immediately.

An AED is designed for ease of use, with clear instructions on how to apply it.

Why Immediate Action is Crucial
In cases of sudden cardiac arrest, time is of the essence. Every minute that passes without CPR or defibrillation decreases the chance of survival by 7-10%. If CPR is performed immediately, survival chances can double or even triple.

Without prompt action, the chances of survival decrease rapidly, and permanent brain damage can occur within 4-6 minutes due to lack of oxygen. This is why knowing what to do and acting quickly is critical.

The Importance of Learning CPR
Learning CPR is one of the most valuable skills you can have. It’s simple to learn and can be the difference between life and death during a sudden cardiac arrest.

CPR helps to maintain blood flow to the brain and other organs until emergency responders can take over. Even if you’re not trained in the full CPR technique, performing hands-only CPR (chest compressions) is better than doing nothing.

By learning CPR, you are empowering yourself to help save lives, not

just in cases of cardiac arrest but also in situations like choking or drowning. Many organizations offer CPR training courses, which teach you the proper techniques and give you the confidence to act in an emergency.

Conclusion
Sudden cardiac arrest is a serious medical emergency, but immediate intervention can make all the difference. By calling emergency services, performing CPR, and using an AED if available, you can increase the chances of survival for someone in need.

Remember, every second counts, and knowing how to respond could save a life. If you want to help create a safer environment in your community, consider learning CPR and encouraging others to do the same.

Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today with Hannah Joseph Hospital
Sudden cardiac arrest can be a life-threatening event, but with awareness, quick action, and the right medical care, lives can be saved. At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we are committed to improving heart health outcomes and equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to act in emergencies.

Don’t wait for a crisis to start caring for your heart. Whether you’re seeking expert advice, advanced treatment, or simply want to learn how to save a life with CPR, we are here to support you every step of the way. Visit Hannah Joseph Hospital – Madurai today and take the first step towards a healthier, safer future for yourself and your loved ones.