What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest happens when someone experiences an unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. This is a medical emergency that calls for CPR, the use of an AED, or defibrillator.

Why is it Important to Know How to Respond?

Early or immediate CPR or use of an AED can double to triple the survival chances for the victim.

  • What is CPR?

    Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

    A number of chest compressions followed by mouth to mouth breaths in a cycle

    The *American Heart Association* defines CPR as “an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart stops beating”

  • Why is CPR Important?

    CPR helps double to triple survival chances after cardiac arrest; it keeps the blood flow active, moving oxygen flow to the brain and other vital organs while waiting for a medical professional to arrive.

  • What is an AED?

    Automated External Defibrillator

    The *American Heart Association* defines an AED as a medical device used in case of a cardiac arrest that ”delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart when it detects an abnormal rhythm and changes the rhythm back to normal”

  • Why are AEDs Important?

    AEDs are an easy to use device that helps in case of a cardiac arrest, if administered in the first few minutes, it can increase survival chances up to 70%.