MISSION, Kan., Feb. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – (Family Features) Despite the widespread acknowledgment that both Conventional CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and Hands-Only CPR (HOCPR) can significantly enhance an individual’s chances of surviving cardiac arrest, a significant portion of the American population lacks confidence in their ability to perform either form of CPR during an emergency.
Research indicates that Black or Hispanic adults experiencing cardiac arrest outside a hospital setting are notably less likely to receive crucial assistance from a bystander. However, the American Heart Association is actively addressing this issue by empowering members of these communities to acquire essential CPR skills, leading to a growing willingness among respondents to take action in emergency situations.
The American Heart Association’s 2023 survey underscored the positive impact of its initiatives aimed at changing perceptions about CPR, resulting in over half of African Americans expressing readiness to administer CPR in emergencies, a notable increase from 37% two years prior. Furthermore, Hispanic and Latino participants have shown increased confidence in their CPR abilities.
In a concerted effort to transform bystanders into potential lifesavers, the American Heart Association’s multiyear program, [ppp0], educates individuals on CPR techniques and AED usage, encourages them to share this knowledge with their social circles, and seeks to garner support from various stakeholders to foster a community of lifesavers.
Dr. Anezi Uzendu, an expert volunteer with the American Heart Association, emphasized, “Each of us holds the ability to respond to sudden cardiac arrests by knowing what to do and having the confidence to act.”
The ultimate objective is to ensure that anyone, anywhere is equipped and empowered to perform CPR during a cardiac emergency, thereby aiming to double the survival rate of cardiac arrest victims by 2030. With Hands-Only CPR taking just 90 seconds to learn, it is as effective as traditional CPR in the critical initial minutes of a cardiac arrest.
Supported nationally by the Elevance Health Foundation, the American Heart Association’s HOCPR campaign focuses on chest compression-only CPR. In the event of a teen or adult collapsing due to a cardiac incident, taking immediate action by calling emergency services and following these steps for HOCPR can save a life:
- Stand directly over the victim.
- Place one hand’s heel at the center of the chest and the other hand on top.
- Perform firm and rapid compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute, matching the tempo of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, with a depth of around 2 inches.
- Sustain compressions and utilize an AED if accessible until emergency aid arrives.
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SOURCE: Family Features Editorial Syndicate