Heart attack and cardiac arrest: How to perform CPR before doctor or nurse comes

A heart attack or cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone. When the heart stops beating properly, the brain and other organs stop getting oxygen, which can cause permanent damage or death in minutes (Image: Pexels)

It can be scary if someone near you suddenly falls unconscious and stops breathing. However, your quick action can save their life. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a straightforward way to keep blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and heart until doctors arrive. You don’t need to be a doctor or nurse to do it.

When to do CPR and how to do it step by step:

What is CPR:

A heart attack or cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone. When the heart stops beating properly, the brain and other organs stop getting oxygen, which can cause permanent damage or death in minutes. Dr Dheeraj Bhaskaran Nair, Senior Consultant in Emergency & Trauma at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, says, “Every minute without CPR reduces a person’s chance of survival by about 10 percent. CPR keeps the blood flowing until professional help arrives, which can double or even triple chances of survival.”

Also read | Heart attacks without chest pain: Why atypical symptoms are dangerous

That’s why knowing CPR can make all the difference.

Who can do it

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), starting CPR immediately if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, is crucial. “You don’t need to wait or hesitate,” Dr Nair advises. “Even if you haven’t had formal training, performing hands-only CPR (just chest compressions without breaths) is better than doing nothing,” he says.

The first few minutes are critical, and your immediate actions can save a life.

Also read | Save a life: 5 simple First Aid basics everyone should know in a medical emergency

CPR basics everyone should know

When should you start CPR?

Start CPR if the person:

• Suddenly collapses and doesn’t respond to your voice or touch
• Isn’t breathing normally (they might be gasping or not breathing at all)
• Has no pulse or signs of blood flow
• Don’t waste time trying to find a pulse if you’re not trained, just check if they respond and breathe.

Why start CPR immediately?

Without oxygen, the brain can be damaged within minutes. Dr Nair says, “Every second counts. CPR keeps oxygen moving through the body and helps protect the brain.” Acting fast gives the person a better chance to survive.

How to do CPR: Step-by-step guide

• Make sure it’s safe
• Check the area to ensure you won’t be hurt.
• Check if the person is awake
• Tap their shoulder and loudly ask, “Are you okay?”
• Call for help
• Dial your local emergency number. Ask someone else nearby to call and get an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), if available
• Check breathing
• Tilt their head back gently and lift the chin. Look for normal breathing for 10 seconds. If none, start CPR.

Place one hand’s heel on the middle of the chest, place your other hand on top. Keep your arms straight and push hard and fast — about 2 inches deep, at a speed of 100 to 120 pushes per minute (like the beat of the song “Stayin’ Alive”). Let the chest come back up fully after each push. Avoid rescue breaths, keep doing chest compressions only.

Use an AED if you have one

Turn it on and follow the voice instructions. Attach the pads to their bare chest and stand clear during analysis or shock.

Keep going: Don’t stop until the person starts breathing normally, help arrives, or you’re too tired.

Why everyone should learn CPR

Dr Nair says, “CPR is a skill anyone can learn. It’s not just for doctors or paramedics. Training and quick action can save lives. The more people who know CPR and where to find AEDs, the better the chances for those who suddenly collapse.”

CPR is simple and can save a life. “You don’t have to be an expert, just willing to act quickly. Your hands can keep someone’s heart beating until the ambulance arrives. In emergencies, every second counts. Be ready, be brave, and you might save a life,” he adds.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.