A person suddenly collapsing and becoming unconscious can indicate a serious medical emergency, particularly if cardiac arrest is involved. The first few minutes can be critical, making immediate action important while emergency help is being called.
According to the health experts cited in the supplied report, when the heart stops pumping blood, the brain and other vital organs can quickly be deprived of oxygen. People nearby should therefore begin basic emergency measures rather than simply waiting for an ambulance.
Cardiac surgeon Dr Santosh Gupta advises checking whether the person responds and whether they are breathing after a sudden collapse.
First Minute: Check Responsiveness and Breathing
Gently tap the person’s shoulder and speak loudly to check whether they respond. Then check their breathing.
If the person is not breathing or is only making abnormal gasping movements, the situation should be treated as a possible cardiac arrest requiring immediate action.
Second Minute: Call Emergency Services
Call the emergency service immediately and put the phone on speaker so that you can follow the operator’s instructions.
If several people are present, one person should make the emergency call while another begins CPR.
Third to Fifth Minute: Start CPR
Lay the person flat on a firm, level surface. For an adult, place both hands over the centre of the chest and begin continuous chest compressions.
The supplied report recommends performing 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with each compression pushing the chest down by approximately 5 to 6 centimetres.
CPR should continue until medical emergency personnel arrive.
Do Not Give Food, Water or Medicine
Experts cited in the report advise against giving an unconscious person water, food or medication by mouth because it could enter the airway.
The person should also not be unnecessarily lifted or forced to stand.
Basic CPR Training Can Help
Health experts recommend keeping emergency numbers in a clearly visible place at home and ensuring family members have basic CPR training.
In a suspected cardiac arrest, rapid recognition, an immediate emergency call and appropriate CPR can play an important role while professional medical assistance is on the way.
Medical note: This article is based on the supplied source. In an actual emergency, contact your local emergency medical service immediately and follow the instructions of trained emergency personnel.