CPR AED 101

Save a life in 3 easy steps

You don’t need to be a paramedic to help in a cardiac arrest. Even without CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or AED (automated external defibrillator) training, you can save a life.

Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops beating, unlike a heart attack. A heart attack happens when the blood flow to the heart is blocked. Most cardiac arrests outside of hospitals happen at home. This means you could help someone you care about.

IIf you see someone collapse or pass out, and think they may be experiencing cardiac arrest, take immediate action.

1. Call 911 for emergency help

If someone else is present, have them call for help while you start CPR.

2. Start CPR

Don’t worry about doing CPR perfectly. You can still help in an emergency by doing hands-only CPR. This means pressing hard and fast on the chest without giving rescue breaths (also known as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation). Use the beat of the disco classic, “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees. It’s 100 beats per minute, which is the right pace.

Rescue breathing is typically performed by people who are trained in it, like medical professionals. Hands-only CPR is as effective as CPR with breaths in the first few minutes when someone collapses. Remember, doing some CPR is better than none.

3. Use an AED when available

AEDs check heart rhythm and give a shock to help the heart beat normally again. You can find them in places like airports and schools. Anyone can use them, even without training.

To use an AED, turn it on and follow the spoken instructions. Look at the diagram to see where to place the pads on the chest. The AED will check the heart and tell you if a shock is needed. Press the “shock” button if it tells you to. Keep doing CPR until help arrives. Using an AED in the first minute can save lives.

Learn to be a lifesaver

If you see someone experiencing cardiac arrest, you can increase their chances of survival by doing CPR and using an AED. Learn more by taking classes with the Red Cross or the American Heart Association.

1080879CAMENABC 03/25