"Learn how active bystander chest compressions deliver oxygenated blood to the brain and sustain life during the crucial ten minutes before a medical ambulance arrives."
When a person suffers a sudden cardiac arrest, their heart stops pumping blood to the brain and other organs. Within just 4 to 6 minutes, brain cells begin to die due to lack of oxygen. Permanent brain damage occurs soon after, followed by clinical death.
Bystander CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is the single most effective action that bridges this gap. By performing high-quality chest compressions, you act as a manual heart pumps, moving oxygenated blood to the brain and keeping vital organs alive until professional paramedics arrive with defibrillators.
Performing 'Hands-Only' CPR—pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest—is highly effective and much simpler than traditional CPR, removing the need for mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths.
Hands-Only CPR Protocol
- Verify Responsiveness: Tap the victim on the shoulders and shout 'Are you okay?' to check for signs of life.
- Call for Rescue: Shout for help, dial emergency helplines (112 or 102), and request an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).
- Correct Hand Position: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (lower half of breastbone) and interlock the other hand on top.
- Push Hard and Fast: Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute (to the beat of 'Staying Alive') at a depth of 2 to 2.4 inches. Allow full chest recoil after each push.