1. Heart Attack vs. Sudden Cardiac Arrest
While often confused, a heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, causing chest pressure, pain radiating to the left arm or jaw, and shortness of breath while the person remains conscious. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart abruptly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction, causing the person to collapse, lose consciousness, and stop breathing within seconds.
2. Step-by-Step Hands-Only CPR
If an adult collapses and is unresponsive with absent or abnormal gasping breath, take these immediate steps:
- •Step 1: Check responsiveness by tapping shoulders firmly and shouting "Are you okay?".
- •Step 2: Shout for help and instruct someone specifically: "Call 999 and bring an ambulance!".
- •Step 3: Place heel of one hand in the center of the chest (lower half of breastbone) and interlock the other hand on top.
- •Step 4: Push hard and fast (2 inches deep, 100 to 120 compressions per minute, to the beat of the song "Stayin' Alive").
- •Step 5: Allow complete chest recoil between compressions. Do not stop until paramedics take over.
3. Immediate Action for Chest Pain (Heart Attack)
If someone experiences severe crushing chest pain, tightness, cold sweats, or pain radiating to the jaw/left arm: seat them comfortably, loosen tight collars, call emergency services, and provide 300mg of chewable Aspirin if they have no known aspirin allergy.
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Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical diagnosis or personalized treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional or visit a hospital emergency department in acute medical situations.