How to react in case of cardiac arrest: the essential steps of CPR

Approximately 35,000 cases of cardiac arrest are recorded each year in Canada. The survival rate is generally low, often considered to be less than 5%. The most important factors for survival are the time before CPR is initiated, the quality of the CPR, and the time before the first defibrillation. Every second counts! Sick people must be taken care of in the first minutes to survive.

These incidents often occur outside of hospitals, such as in the office, on the street, or even at home. This is why we all need to know how to react to this kind of situation.

How to recognize cardiac arrest?

If you observe non-life-sustaining breathing in an unconscious person, suspect cardiac arrest. In this case, call emergency services immediately and obtain an AED.

How to react in the event of cardiac arrest?

Once cardiac arrest is suspected:

1. Call EMS (9-1-1)
2. Try to obtain an AED (automated external defibrillator)
3. Initiate CPR
   1. Make sure the sick person is lying on their back on a flat, hard surface.
   2. Kneel next to her.
   3. Place the palm of one of your hands on his sternum, then place the palm of your other hand on it.
   4. Adopt a position to resuscitate the sick person: arms outstretched perpendicular to the ground.
   5. Start chest compressions by performing 100 to 120 compressions per minute (approximately 2 compressions per second) to a depth of approximately 5 to 6 cm.

What about the use of the AED?

Using an AED is extremely safe and it is impossible to make the situation worse. Its use is crucial! The AED is a medical device that facilitates resuscitation. He administers an electric shock which should help restore the heartbeat.

Conclusion: the importance of CPR training

Rapid intervention increases the chances of survival of a person suffering from cardiac arrest. This is why we should all take responsibility and take CPR courses. At Impact Santé+, we offer several CPR training courses. Our advantage? We have been a training partner of the Canadian Red Cross for over 20 years now. Call us for more details on our offers!