Bad CPR is Better Than No CPR – Taking Action Can Save a Life
By Home Security Source Feb 5, 2010 | 10:10:00 amPosted in: DIY Safety, Family, Personal Safety According to the American Heart Association almost 80 percent of heart attacks (that happen outside of a hospital) occur at home and are witnessed by a family member or someone in the house. Only a small percent of sudden cardiac arrest victims survive because most people who witness the attacks do not know CPR.
Experts are now saying that even if you do not have CPR training you can help. According to the Web site “The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide” all you need to know is the following:
• Put your hand on the middle of the person’s chest
• Push hard and relax
• Repeat the push-relax cycle twice a second
• Don’t stop
According to the health guide “Poor CPR is better than no CPR.”
Remember, time is of the essence in the case of heart attacks. First, call 9-1-1. Then move the person to a flat surface and begin following the steps outlined above. After calling 911 too many people waste valuable time by just waiting for emergency help.
CPR celebrates its 50th birthday this year. It was first pioneered in 1960 and since then it has been shown that providing CPR immediately after a sudden cardiac arrest can double or triple the survival rate.
Heart attack is not the only condition where immediate action and medical assistance is key. Seniors, disabled people and those with chronic illness who live alone can benefit from a monitored medical alert system. A device is worn as a pendent around the neck or on the wrist. If someone needs emergency help they simply push the button on the device and first responders can be dispatched.
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