Recognizing and Responding to Heart Attacks
1. Identifying a Potential Heart Attack
Know the signs and act promptly:
- If you suspect someone is experiencing a heart attack, call the emergency services immediately.
- In the UK, heart attacks are alarmingly common, with someone being admitted to the hospital approximately every five minutes, according to the British Heart Foundation.
- Never ignore chest pain; treat it seriously and take prompt action.
2. Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Familiarize yourself with common symptoms:
- Heart attack symptoms may include:
- Persistent chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
- Pain radiating to the arms, back, neck, and stomach
- Unexplained shortness of breath
3. Providing Initial Aid
Take immediate action when someone shows signs of a heart attack:
- Seat them down and ensure their back is supported against a stable surface, such as a fence, wall, tree, or goalpost.
- Bring their knees up towards their chest and lean them forward slightly.
- This position, known as the heart attack position or 'W' position, helps reduce pressure on the heart by opening up the thoracic cavity.
- Do not lay the person down and raise their legs, as this can strain the heart further.
- If you have an aspirin in an Aspod, consider offering it, but do not insist if they decline.
- While in the 'W' position, maintain communication and urgently contact emergency services.
Learning Outcomes:
- IPOSi Unit four LO3.1, 3.2 & 3.3
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