Statistics show that less than 30% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims receive bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Many people are simply at a loss on what to do if someone near them suddenly collapses. There are also health concerns involved in performing mouth-to-mouth to a stranger. This may result in people not doing anything. Here are my top 5 reasons why you should take CPR training.

 

Five: CPR is easy to learn

 

CPR doesn’t require years of medical training. Most CPR classes are hands-on and interactive. The course can be completed in a short period of time. Course participants will learn how to properly perform chest compressions in a fun and supportive environment. Most instructors make it fun learning this important lifesaving skill to the tempo of musical gems such as Stayin’ Alive, Beat It and Rock This Town.

 

 

 

Four: you will feel confident in the event of a cardiac emergency

Being faced with an emergency medical situation can be terrifying to anyone, especially those without training. Learning CPR can be an empowering experience. It will give you the confidence needed to know that if someone around you needs this life saving procedure, you will be ready. It will also make you more valuable to those around you in the community, home and workplace.

 

Three: mouth-to-mouth is not necessary

 

In 2010 the American Heart Association Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) changed the guidelines for CPR. It stated that people who do not feel comfortable performing mouth-to-mouth should attempt hands only CPR. Hands only CPR involves only giving compressions. Compressions are the most important part of CPR. This is what continues the blood flow throughout the body to vital organs. Remember, any attempt is better than no attempt!

 

 

 

Two: minutes matter

The first few minutes after cardiac arrest are critical. Brain cells begin to die within 4 to 6 minutes after the heart stops beating. It will take 13-18 minutes for Emergency Medical Services to arrive. The chances of a person’s survival double if CPR is given within the first two minutes of cardiac arrest. Performing CPR keeps blood flowing and oxygen to the brain. This gives the patient the best chance for recovery.

 

One: the life you save will likely be that of a loved one

 

88% of cardiac arrest happens in or around the home. This means the life you save will most likely be someone you love. Yet 70% of Americans are not prepared to act during a cardiac arrest. Performing CPR quickly can be the difference of life or death for someone you love.

Sudden cardiac arrest can affect people of all ages, including children and teens. By learning CPR, you give yourself the confidence in knowing that when someone stops breathing and minutes matter, those around can count on you. Remember, CPR saves lives, especially those you love!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jaracz Swain is the founder of Safety NET, LLC. He is a retired Firefighter/EMT of 21 years with the Louisville, KY fire department. The same passion that led him to become a firefighter, led him to develop Safety NET where he teaches the skills needed to help save lives. In his spare time, he loves to play golf and relax at the beach.

For onsite CPR and first aid training, visit the Safety NET website, their Facebook page, or call 704-493-6663.

 

 

 

 

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