First of all, what is CPR? It stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and is a method of manually pumping the heart to keep blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and other vital organs until medical help arrives. AED which stands for Automated External Defibrillator is a portable device which analyzes the heart’s rhythm and if need be, delivers a shock to help re-establish an effective rhythm.
Every second is important when a person suffers cardiac arrest. In those critical minutes, bystander action, through CPR or the use of AED in a health centre can mean the difference between the life and death of a person. This is why every year, we observe National CPR and AED week from the 1st to the 7th of June. This is a time we can raise awareness about the importance of learning life saving skills.
Why does it matter?
In the US as a case study, Cardiac arrests are one of the leading causes of death and claim more than 350,000 lives yearly. This is something that can happen to anyone at any place – at work, at home and even in the most random places. The most effective response is immediate Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. When this is administered within the first few minutes, it can double or even triple an individuals survival chances. Many people hesitate and do not do anything out of fear, but let us always remember it is better to do something than nothing at all.
Be the difference we need today and learn CPR AND AED
The training for CPR and AED is widely available and often just takes a few hours. This training can be done in person and also online. Some of the trainings include:
. Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest (sudden collapse, no pulse, no breathing, and so on).
. Calling the emergency number of your country and starting chest compressions immediately.
. Using AED as soon as it is an available option.
. Continuing CPR until medical and emergency services arrive the scene or as the individual is being transported to a health facility.
How can you be involved?
- Get a certification by taking a CPR and AED course.
- Spread the word and use your voice to create awareness in public and on social media as well.
- Check surroundings and know where the nearest AED is.
- Host a training event if you are part of a school, office or community group .
The perspective of a doctor
As healthcare providers, we see firsthand over and again, how vital it is for early intervention in saving lives to be carried out. Yes we are trained to handle emergencies, but we are well aware that the first responder is often not a doctor or paramedic- it is indeed you. Empowering people to act faster and more confidently in an emergency can drastically improve the rate of survival across communities and the world at large.
Together, we can save lives. This week is more than just a campaign, but a call to action. You could be a teacher, parent, coach or a student , but your hands very much have the power to save lives. Take a course, learn the steps and be prepared for anything, because at any time, you could be the difference between a life saved and one lost.
DIJA YUSUFU PAPKA
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