Nearly 40,000 Canadians suffer sudden cardiac arrest each year. Four out of five of these cardiac arrests occur at home or in public places. Time is critical for people suffering sudden cardiac arrest. After just 4 minutes, significant brain damage can occur and after 12 minutes, the survival rate is only 5%. CPR is often what comes to mind when people think of first aid for a heart attached or cardiac arrest. But CPR is only part of the picture. There are five steps in the Chain of Survival that are important when helping someone with heart problems:
1. Immediate recognition of heart attack signs and quickly getting help
2. Early CPR with an emphasis on chest compressions
3. Rapid defibrillation
4. Effective advanced life support
5. Integrated post-cardiac arrest care Each of these steps is as important as the others.
CPR and defibrillation go hand in hand to save a life and time is a vital ingredient. On February 24, 2024 St. John Ambulance and the Rotary Club of Barrie are equipping people with the basics of CPR for children and adults, how to use a defibrillator (AED) and what to do when someone is choking. The clinic will be held at Lampman Lane Community Centre, Barrie. There are two workshops available that day starting at 9:30am to 11:30am as well as 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Pre-register for this CPR workshop by calling (705) 726-0991 or email yorksimcoemuskoka@sja.ca
Ad Choices