Do you know what to do if someone goes into cardiac arrest? Should you start performing CPR, or should you retrieve an AED first? You never know when you might find yourself as a bystander, but knowing the proper steps in that scenario could save a life.
When someone experiences cardiac arrest, rapid intervention is crucial. Brain damage can begin within 4 minutes, and brain death can occur within 8 to 10 minutes. Given that the average EMS response time in New Hampshire is between 3 to 15 minutes, having employees who are trained and ready to help can make all the difference. Fortunately, NHADA offers on-site CPR and First Aid training, led by two certified instructors, for a nominal fee of just $30 per employee.
Sometimes, bystanders hesitate to assist because they fear they might fracture or break the victim’s ribs or worry about the risk of being sued. These concerns are common, but the Good Samaritan Law is in place to protect those who provide medical assistance in good faith, shielding them from lawsuits related to unintentional injuries or harm. Another concern, especially in the wake of COVID-19, is that some people may not feel comfortable providing rescue breaths. That’s okay! You can still administer effective chest compressions by placing one hand on top of the other in the center of the chest and pressing down hard and fast at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. A helpful tip: Keep pace with the classic song “Stayin’ Alive.”
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can seem intimidating if you’ve never seen one used or undergone AED training. While training is the best way to prepare and build confidence, AEDs are designed to guide users through the process. They utilize voice prompts and visual instructions to ensure proper use, minimizing human error and eliminating doubts about making a mistake. An AED should be used as soon as possible in a cardiac arrest emergency, as it can increase the victim’s chance of survival by up to 70%! Many members have purchased AEDs at discounted rates through New Hampshire’s “Direct Purchase” program, administered by the state of New Hampshire’s Department of Safety.
For more information on this program or to schedule a CPR class, contact me at (603) 224-2369 or mfoster@nhada.com. You can also reach out to Bill Wood, coordinator of Preparedness & Special Projects at New Hampshire Fire Academy and EMS, for information or to register a current AED. Bill can be contacted by phone at (603) 223-4228 or by email at william.wood@dos.nh.gov.
