Check… Call… Compress
in Cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
If you see someone collapse unexpectedly this is usually the result of cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that by doing chest compressions only, without mouth-to-mouth breathing, bystanders increase the person’s chance of survival. Follow these three steps to perform Chest-Compression-Only Resuscitation:
- Check for responsiveness - Shake the person and shout, “Are you OK?”
- Call - Direct someone to call 9-1-1 or make the call yourself if the person is unresponsive and struggling to breathe (gasping or snoring). Say you suspect cardiac arrest.
- Compress - Begin forceful chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute. Position the victim back down on the floor. Place the heel of one hand on top of the other and place the heel of the bottom hand on the center of the victim’s chest. Lock your elbows and compress the chest forcefully; make sure you lift up enough to let the chest recoil.
If an AED (heart with lightening flash symbol) is available, turn the unit on and follow the voice instructions. If no AED (automated external defibrillator) is available, perform chest compressions continuously until the paramedics arrive. This is physically tiring so if someone else is available, take turns after each 100 chest compressions.
Remember: If you suspect drowning or drug overdose, follow standard CPR procedures (alternate 30 chest compressions with two mouth-to-mouth breaths).
Watch the video to find out more about chest-compression-only CPR!