Getting help quickly during a heart attack can make a big difference in saving a life. The sooner medical treatment is given, the less damage the heart will suffer. If someone shows signs of a heart attack, knowing what to do can help improve their chances. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
- Call for Help Immediately: Dial the emergency number. If an ambulance can’t reach, have someone drive the person to the nearest hospital. Only drive if there’s no other choice.
- Help the Person Rest and Stay Calm: Have the person sit down and try to stay calm. Loosen any tight clothing to make them more comfortable.
- Don’t Ignore the Symptoms: Even if the person tries to deny the symptoms, do not wait to see if they go away. Call for emergency help immediately.
- Take Aspirin (If Recommended): If advised by a healthcare professional, chew an aspirin to help prevent blood clotting and reduce heart damage. However, do not delay calling emergency services to take the aspirin.
- Take Nitroglycerin (If Prescribed): If a prescription for nitroglycerin is available, take it as directed while waiting for emergency help.
- Perform CPR if Needed: If the person stops breathing or their heart stops, begin CPR by pressing hard and fast in the center of their chest—about 100 to 120 times per minute. If you’re trained in CPR, perform 30 chest presses followed by 2 breaths. If not, just keep pressing the chest.
Abbreviation :
CPR: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
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