Take a Class Resources Blog Sudden Cardiac Arrest: How to Respond

  • Sudden Cardiac Arrest: How to Respond

    Individual responding to a sudden cardiac arrest.

    Date Published: August 28, 2024

    Ask the Experts: How to Respond to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest from American Red Cross on Vimeo.

    People who have a history of cardiovascular disease or a congenital heart disorder are at higher risk for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). However, sudden cardiac arrest can happen in people who appear healthy and have no known heart disease or other risk factors for the condition.

    Learn about the differences between cardiac arrest and a heart attack.

    Sudden cardiac arrest signs to look for:

    • Unconscious
    • No breathing or only gasping
    • Not moving

    Common signs to look for: - Unconsciousness; - No breathing or only gasping; - Not moving; from the American Red Cross

    Accidents and emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. Every second counts in a cardiac arrest and it’s critical to know what to do. If you see somebody suddenly collapse, call or tell someone to call 911 and to get an AED. Then start CPR. If you don’t know CPR, start hands-only CPR, pushing hard and fast on the center of the chest.

    The American Red Cross recommends that everyone learn CPR. Training takes only a few hours, and it can give you the confidence and skills to act in an emergency and help save a life. Since 70% of cardiac arrests occur outside the hospital, the life that you save could likely be one of a friend or a loved one.

    Get trained in CPR today and be prepared when moments matter.

    Information provided by members of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council.

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    About Red Cross Training Services

    Training Services is a division of the American Red Cross with the mission to spread knowledge and educate as many members of the national community in lifesaving procedures. Our services include training courses for CPR and AED, First Aid, BLS (Basic Life Support), babysitting, Caregiving, Lifeguarding Water Safety, and more.