In an emergency, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a life-saving method that helps sustain blood flow to the brain and heart. While you might believe that this is a skill that only lifeguards, healthcare practitioners, and childcare workers should have, CPR training is essential – even lifesaving – for everyone.
Around 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year. A sudden, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and awareness is referred to as cardiac arrest.
It is critical to begin CPR as soon as possible if someone has a sudden cardiac arrest. Although emergency workers respond as rapidly as possible, if CPR is not administered within minutes, a brain injury, damage, or death may result.
Ashley's Story
When I awoke to what I believed was my husband Andrew snoring, I was 39 weeks pregnant and napping, scheduled to be induced the next day. When I tried to wake him up to get him to shift positions, I sensed something wasn't right. Andrew was struggling for air and not responding.
I dialed 9-1-1. Andrew had otherwise been in good health, with no signs or symptoms of illness. I had no idea what was going on and needed someone to tell me what I should do.
Andrew was in cardiac arrest, and the operator informed me that CPR would be initiated. She asked if I could help Andrew onto the floor, but he was just too heavy for me to lift.
I was pregnant by myself at the time. The operator instructed me to remove the pillow from behind Andrew's head without missing a beat, and she began teaching me through chest compressions directly on the bed. She instructed me on where to place my hands on his chest, how firmly to push, and how to keep a steady beat.
First responders and an ambulance came in 10 minutes, though it felt much longer.
I didn't realize at the time that not all 911 operators are certified to assist individuals with CPR. Like most others, I assumed it was nothing out of the ordinary.
I consider myself fortunate that the person who answered my phone was able to provide me with this further instruction. Without that, I'm not sure what would have occurred. Nobody should be forced to. So I'm hoping you'll back this bill and ensure that every caller, like me, gets the advice they need to help a loved one in need."
Only a small percentage of the population in the United States gets trained in CPR each year, but survival from Sudden Cardiac Arrest is dependent on individuals phoning 911, initiating Hands-Only CPR, and utilizing an AED as quickly as feasible.
Source: https://www.yourethecure.org/ashley
Prepare to save lives by attending CPR classes and getting a CPR certification.