FACTS
- Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a condition whereby the heart suddenly stops beating and the victim will certainly die unless specific medical measures are undertaken immediately.
- One major difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest is that a heart attack is caused by a reduction or blockage in the heart’s blood supply— during which the person is conscious—whereas with sudden cardiac arrest, the victim always loses consciousness.
- Do not wait to get the victim medical attention. Studies have shown that if defibrillated within the first minute of collapse, the victim’s chances for survival are close to 90 percent.
- Because of their ease of use anybody can use an AED. That being said, someone with training should be the one to use the AED on a victim if present.
- Documented regular inspections of AEDs are critical. AEDs have indicator lights that either show green or red. A red light or flashing red light indicates some problem with the AED.
STATS
- The survival rates of individuals suffering cardiac arrest decrease by approximately 7 – 10% every minute that defibrillation is delayed.
- The use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can save the lives of 30% or more of those who suffer cardiac arrest.
- When defibrillation is delayed, survival rates decrease to approximately 50%.
- The earlier defibrillation occurs, the better the prognosis.
- Research shows that people who have first aid training can reduce their own personal injuries by as much as 30%.
- A human heart can cease beating within 4 minutes after breathing stops.
- Permanent brain damage can occur within 4 to 6 minutes after breathing stops.
- Average ambulance response time is 8 to 12 minutes.