A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. A heart attack can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and other symptoms. If left untreated, a heart attack can damage the heart muscle and lead to cardiac arrest, which is when the heart stops beating.

Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate action. According to OSHA, about 10,000 sudden cardiac arrests occur at work each year in the United States, and only 5-7% of the victims survive¹. The chances of survival decrease by 10% every minute without treatment.

The good news is that you can help save a life by following these steps:

1. Recognize the signs of a heart attack and cardiac arrest

The first step is to recognize the signs of a heart attack and cardiac arrest, and call 9-1-1 (or have someone else call for you) as soon as possible. Some common signs of a heart attack are:

  • Chest pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes
  • Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
  • Shortness of breath, with or without chest pain
  • Cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, or lightheadedness

Some common signs of cardiac arrest are:

  • Sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness
  • No normal breathing or pulse
  • No signs of life, such as movement, coughing, or moaning

2. Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

The second step is to perform CPR, which is a technique that helps maintain blood flow and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs. CPR involves giving chest compressions and rescue breaths to the victim. To perform CPR, follow these steps:

  • Place the victim on their back on a firm, flat surface
  • Kneel beside the victim and place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest, and the other hand on top of the first
  • Push hard and fast, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, and a depth of about 2 inches (5 cm)
  • After every 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by tilting the victim’s head back, lifting their chin, pinching their nose, and blowing into their mouth until their chest rises
  • Continue CPR until the victim shows signs of life, an automated external defibrillator (AED) is ready to use, or emergency medical services (EMS) personnel arrive

3. Provide early defibrillation with an AED

The third step is to provide early defibrillation with an AED, which is a device that can analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock to restore normal heartbeat. Defibrillation is the only effective treatment for ventricular fibrillation, which is the most common cause of cardiac arrest. To use an AED, follow these steps:

  • Turn on the AED and follow the voice and visual prompts
  • Expose the victim’s chest and attach the electrode pads to their bare skin, following the diagram on the pads
  • Make sure no one is touching the victim and press the analyze button
  • If a shock is advised, make sure no one is touching the victim and press the shock button
  • Resume CPR until the AED prompts you to stop or EMS personnel arrive

4. Care for the victim until EMS personnel arrive

The fourth step is to care for the victim until EMS personnel arrive. Some things you can do are:

  • Monitor the victim’s breathing and pulse, and continue CPR or AED if needed
  • Loosen any tight clothing and cover the victim with a blanket to keep them warm
  • Reassure the victim and keep them calm
  • If the victim is conscious and has a history of heart disease, help them take their prescribed medication, such as nitroglycerin or aspirin
  • Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, unless instructed by EMS personnel

Conclusion

A heart attack and cardiac arrest are serious medical emergencies that can happen in the workplace. By recognizing the signs, calling 9-1-1, performing CPR, providing early defibrillation with an AED, and caring for the victim, you can help save a life and make a difference. To learn more about how to prevent and respond to cardiac emergencies, you can visit the websites of OSHA, American Heart Association, American Red Cross³, or National Safety Council.

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