Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a serious medical emergency that can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. In fact, SCA is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, claiming approximately 350,000 lives each year. The good news is that SCA can be successfully treated with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of SCA awareness, how to perform CPR and how to use AEDs, and why it's crucial to provide AEDs to schools, sports teams, and other organizations.
Recently, NFL player Damar Hamlin, who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a Week 17 Monday Night Football game. Fortunately, he survived the incident thanks to the quick actions of his teammates and coaches, who performed CPR and used an AED to revive him. Damar Hamlin's story highlights the importance of SCA awareness and the need for AEDs to be readily available in all settings, including sports teams. The NFL has also taken steps to increase SCA awareness among players and coaches, including providing CPR and AED training and making AEDs available at all games and practices. It's important to remember that SCA can happen to anyone, regardless of age or physical fitness, and having the knowledge and tools to respond quickly can make all the difference.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including heart disease, trauma, and drug overdose. When SCA occurs, the person may lose consciousness, stop breathing, and have no pulse. SCA is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The Importance of SCA Awareness
Awareness is key when it comes to SCA. Knowing the signs and symptoms of SCA, how to perform CPR, and how to use an AED can save lives. It's essential to educate yourself, your family, and your community about SCA to increase the chances of survival in the event of an emergency.
Performing CPR
CPR is a life-saving technique that can help maintain blood flow and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help arrives. CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, and it's essential to start CPR as soon as possible after SCA occurs. To perform CPR, follow these steps:
1. Call 911 or have someone else call 911.
- Check for responsiveness. Shake the person and shout "Are you okay?"
- If the person is unresponsive, start chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest and place the other hand on top. Press down firmly and quickly, allowing the chest to recoil between compressions.
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. Tilt the person's head back, pinch their nose, and give two full breaths into their mouth.
- Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives or an AED is available.
2. Using an AED
*Video is a part of the FREE Online CPR Skills
An AED is a portable device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. AEDs are safe and easy to use and can significantly increase the chances of survival in the event of SCA. To use an AED, follow these steps:
- Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts or visual instructions.
- Remove any clothing or jewelry from the person's chest.
- Attach the adhesive pads to the person's chest as indicated on the AED.
- Make sure no one is touching the person and press the shock button if advised by the AED.
- Immediately resume CPR for two minutes or until the AED prompts you to check for a pulse.
- Providing AEDs to Schools, Sports Teams, and other Organizations
Providing AEDs to schools, sports teams, and other organizations is crucial for increasing the chances of survival in the event of SCA. These organizations often have large groups of people in close proximity, making them more vulnerable to SCA. Having an AED readily available can save lives and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Free Online Training: CPR & AED (Adult, Child and Infant)
As part of our commitment to raising awareness about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and promoting the importance of CPR and AED training, we are pleased to offer a free online CPR training course for adults, children, and infants that includes AED training.
This comprehensive training program will teach you how to perform CPR, including chest compressions and rescue breaths, on adults, children, and infants. You will also learn how to use an AED to deliver a shock to the heart in the event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
The course is designed to be user-friendly and can be completed at your own pace, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule. By taking this training, you'll have the knowledge and skills to respond quickly and confidently in the event of an emergency.
To sign up for our free online CPR training course, simply visit onlinecprskills.com here. Remember, being prepared can save a life.