A Guide to Immediate Action During a Cardiac Event

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

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A Guide to Immediate Action During a Cardiac Event

A cardiac event does not appear as it does in the movies. There’s no tick-tock sound of the clock or dramatic music in the background building the plot. Instead, it begins as a quiet, dull pressure in the chest, often leading to an unusual shortness of breath or a sudden feeling of weakness that feels completely unnatural. 

In those first few minutes, people usually find themselves confused, wondering what to do next: should they take it seriously, or should they wait? However, when it’s a matter of the heart, every second counts. That’s why it’s important to stay prepared for emergencies like a cardiac event. For instance, installing life-saving equipment in clearly marked AED cabinet units can be a true lifesaver. 

However, preparation doesn’t only mean having the equipment in place. You need to know what to look for, what to do during the event, and how to respond to it while staying calm. Awareness and confidence are as critically important as a well-organized cabinet with life-saving tools.‌

Identifying the Warning Signs of a Cardiac Event

Most people assume that heart-related emergencies occur with dramatic symptoms. But the reality is far more subtle and quiet. Generally, people experience severe chest discomfort, including tightness, pressure, squeezing, or pain that lasts longer than a few minutes. The pain supposedly comes and goes and gradually spreads to the arms, neck, back, or stomach.

Other signs include:

• Cold sweats
• Nausea
• Sudden fatigue
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual anxiety
• Mild chest pressure
• Unexplained exhaustion
• Indigestion-like discomfort 

The key to staying safe is paying attention to any abnormal signs. If something feels unusual or alarming, treating it early can avoid serious consequences. Wasting time to “see if it passes” can delay the treatment. Rather, trust your gut and call 911 to respond to the symptoms quickly.

Why Is Calling Emergency Services Necessary? 

The first thing to do when you suspect a cardiac event is to call for emergency services. Avoid driving yourself to the hospital unless there’s no other way out. Paramedics have the skills and equipment to administer medications, stabilize oxygen levels, and monitor your heart before ‌actual treatment begins at the hospital. 

How to Support the Person While Waiting?

In case you are with someone who is having a heart attack, call emergency services for them. Provide clear, detailed information about the symptoms, known medical history, and location so help arrives faster. 

While waiting, keep the person seated in a comfortable position. Loosen tight clothing and encourage the person to take slow, steady breaths. This stabilizes the nerves. Most importantly, stay calm. Panicking in front of the patient will increase the heart’s workload and worsen the situation. 

Also, avoid giving food or large amounts of water during this period. Stay present and follow the dispatcher’s instructions to monitor the individual’s responsiveness until emergency services arrive.

What If the Person Collapses?

If the person becomes unresponsive and stops breathing normally, the chances are that cardiac arrest has occurred. Immediate intervention becomes essential. But how do you perform CPR safely and correctly? Here’s what you should do:

• Place the heel of your hand at the center of their chest and put the other hand on top.
• Push hard and fast, ideally about 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
• Make sure the chest rises fully between compressions.
• Continue CPR until the emergency responders take over.

When to Use an AED and How?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable, life-saving device that analyzes the heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock. AEDs include step-by-step instructions on when and how to use them. To use it:

• Check if the person is breathing or has a pulse.
• Turn on the AED and follow the voice instructions to check the pulse.
• Focus on how it tells you to place the AED pads.
• Stand clear when the pads are placed.
• Say “stand clear” and push the shock button so the AED delivers a shock when needed.
• Finally, begin CPR as instructed by the AED.

Endnote

How prepared you are makes a difference during a cardiac event. So learn CPR from certified trainers and keep an AED ready. Look out for early signs of a cardiac event and seek emergency help at the earliest opportunity. Always keep the emergency number accessible. Your prompt action can save time and lives.