When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, it is often fatal. It usually strikes without warning and in the most unexpected situations. Statistics indicate that 70%-80% of cardiac arrest cases occur either in the home or at public places. In such cases, the person nearest at hand to the victim is often a bystander with no medical expertise such as a relative, an office colleague, or a passer-by. If those present at the scene are able to provide CPR to the victim promptly, the latter’s chances of survival are significantly increased.
On 02 October 2019, organized by the Health Services Unit, the high school students were trained to be first responders in the event of an emergency by members of the Philippine Heart Association.
How to conduct CPR:
- Kneel beside the patient.
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest on the breast bone.
- Place the heel of your other hand on top of the first hand.
- Lean over the victim with your arms straight and elbows locked, and your shoulders directly above your hands.
- Press down vertically on the victim’s breastbone 5cm to a count of “one-and-two-and-three-and-four…,” giving one push each time you say a number. When saying “and” release the pressure but do not move your hands from their location on the chest.
- Push hard and fast at about 100 compressions a minute.
- Continue with chest compressions until there are signs of movement or until emergency help arrives.