Can you save your friend’s or family member’s life in a medical emergency?
It’s the time of year when friends and family gather together to celebrate the holidays. It’s also a time of increased chances that someone close to you may have a life-threatening emergency. Being prepared to handle a medical emergency is the key to saving their life.
In this post, we’re sharing some essential tips on how to respond to common crisis situations like cardiac arrest, choking, or a burn. Knowing these life-saving techniques can mean the difference between life and death for a loved one.
Lifesaving Techniques for a Cardiac Arrest
A cardiac arrest can strike suddenly and without warning. Recognizing the signs promptly can be a crucial factor in saving a life. Signs that someone is experiencing cardiac arrest include:
- Complaining of chest pain or pressure;
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats;
- Wheezing or shortness of breath;
- Light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting;
- Feel like their heart is pounding in their chest;
- Unresponsiveness; and/or,
- No pulse or heartbeat.
Immediate action using life-saving techniques is critical. Call 911, then start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) by giving chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute. If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, use it immediately. Continue providing aid until First Responders arrive or drive the victim to the nearest ER.
Lifesaving Techniques for a Choking Victim
Choking is a frightening experience. It happens when an object becomes stuck in someone’s throat or windpipe and blocks the flow of air to the lungs. If you see someone clutching their throat, unable to speak, and/or turning blue, they may be choking.
Every second counts. Follow these life-saving techniques to help save someone from choking to death:
- Use a combination of back blows and abdominal thrusts to clear the airway.
- If you are choking and alone, you can thrust your abdomen against a chair or countertop.
- Call 911 or take the victim to the nearest hospital.
- Important: DO NOT use this technique on children under 1 year of age. Babies require different emergency care than adults. Golden State CPR offers training on pediatric life-saving techniques.
Lifesaving Techniques for a Burn
Candlelight, crackling fires, and tasty treats cooking on the stove all help make the holidays a magical time. Unfortunately, these activities also increase the risk of someone being burned.
Use these First Aid techniques to immediately help a burn victim:
- Cool the burn with running water for at least 10 minutes.
- Gently wash and dry the skin. Do not use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
- Do not use butter or any creams or ointments not specifically for burn wound care. Petroleum jelly can help keep the skin moist.
- Cover the burn with sterile, non-stick gauze.
Seek immediate medical attention for burns that:
- Appear charred or have black, brown, or white skin patches;
- Are deep and go through the skin layers; or,
- Cover a major joint, encircle a leg or arm, or cover the face, hands, feet, buttocks, or groin.
Equip Yourself with Lifesaving Skills
Have you heard the phrase: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? At Golden State CPR, we take that one step further. We believe that An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Life.
Are you ready to equip yourself with life-saving skills so that you know what to do in the event of a medical emergency this holiday season?
Don’t be unprepared to save the life of a friend or family member. Sign up for CPR and First Aid training today. Whether it’s your first course or it’s been at least 2 years since you were last certified, our expert instructors are here to empower you to be a lifesaver.
Stay safe, and enjoy your holidays with peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for any medical emergency that may arise.
We are a team of certified CPR and First Aid Instructors with real-life emergency experience that impacts the way we teach. We believe that it is not enough to only get a certification. Our mission is to train our students to be confident, knowing they can perform life-saving procedures in an emergency. With state-of-the-art resources, Golden State CPR is your partner in preparedness.
Golden State CPR offers comprehensive training in CPR and First Aid lifesaving techniques, including AED training, basic life support, and more. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or obtain a work-related credential, we have flexible course options that fit your schedule and location. We can also accommodate groups anywhere in the United States.