“Take some time to learn first aid and CPR. It saves lives, and it works.”
— Bobby Sherman
“The most common reason many people die from cardiac arrest is because no one nearby knew CPR, or if they did know it, they didn’t actually do it.”
— Dr Michael Sayre, a Professor of Emergency Medicine at The Ohio State University, USA.
I believe that many of us are well aware of the importance of CPR, which stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, how many people know how it works and how to perform it when the need arises?
I was prompted to ask this question after reading a statement by Datuk Seri Ang Lai Soon, who appealed to the Unity Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to make CPR training compulsory in all schools and institutions of learning nationwide. Ang, who is the Chair and Commander of St John Ambulance Sarawak (SJAS), has been advocating this life-saving procedure for the last three decades.
His statement prompted me to ask some of my friends whether they know what CPR is and how it is performed. Sadly, most admitted that they have heard of CPR but have no clue as to how it works or, more importantly, how to perform it. I am not ashamed to admit that I am in the same boat.
This is a disheartening and concerning issue given the prevalence of cardiac arrest in today’s world. Cardiac arrest has become an alarming health crisis, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The sudden and unexpected nature of this medical emergency demands swift action and immediate intervention to increase the chances of survival.
CPR stands as a crucial technique that can make the difference between life and death. It works best on the principle of 30 chest compressions and two breaths of rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) – known as 30:2. It helps maintain blood circulation and provides oxygen to the brain and other vital organs.
When an individual suffers from cardiac arrest, their heart suddenly stops beating effectively, which can result in brain damage or even death within minutes. This is where CPR comes in. Prompt CPR initiation can keep the person suffering from cardiac arrest alive until emergency medical assistance arrives.
There are several common misconceptions about CPR that can lead to a dangerous reliance on others and limit individuals’ ability to help others and potentially save lives. Some of the most common misconceptions about CPR include:
Only healthcare professionals or individuals in certain professions need to learn CPR: This is not true. Anyone can learn CPR, and it is an essential life-saving skill that can be used in emergencies.
Medical emergencies will be handled by healthcare professionals: While healthcare professionals are trained to handle medical emergencies, they may not always be present in an emergency situation. Knowing CPR can help bridge the gap between when an emergency occurs and when professional help arrives.
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is required: While mouth-to-mouth resuscitation was previously a standard part of CPR, current guidelines recommend hands-only CPR, which involves only chest compressions. Mouth-to-mouth breathing can still be used in some situations, but it is not always necessary.
CPR is complicated and difficult to perform: While CPR can seem intimidating, it is a simple and straightforward procedure that anyone can learn. Training courses are widely available and can provide individuals with the confidence and skills needed to perform CPR effectively.
CPR can restart a stopped heart: CPR does not actually restart a stopped heart. Instead, it helps maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical assistance arrives and can provide advanced life support.
It is important to dispel these misconceptions about CPR and promote public awareness of the importance of learning this life-saving skill.
By disregarding the importance of CPR knowledge, people also inadvertently limit their ability to help others and potentially save lives. Complacency also seems to play a role in people disregarding CPR knowledge. They assume that they will never find themselves in a situation where they need to perform CPR, or they underestimate the likelihood of witnessing a cardiac arrest event.
The SJAS chair and commander is right that CPR training and education must be made available in all institutions of learning nationwide. By introducing CPR in schools, we are creating a ripple effect. Students who learn CPR often share their knowledge with their families, friends, and communities, further expanding the reach of this life-saving skill. This, in turn, creates a multiplier effect, potentially training a larger number of individuals and increasing the chances of survival for cardiac arrest victims across society.
It would be better if the government empowered communities with CPR training and knowledge so that they are widely available, incorporating various educational channels, including schools, workplaces, community centres, and online platforms. With proper training, individuals can confidently respond to cardiac arrest situations and offer a lifeline to those in need. This can also create a network of first responders capable of providing immediate assistance when faced with a cardiac emergency.
To ensure the skills and knowledge acquired about CPR do not fade over time, emphasis must be given to ongoing training and practices, as well as refresher courses. A lack of reinforcement and practice can lead to uncertainty or even forgetting the proper steps and techniques when faced with an actual emergency.
The government may also look at the possibility of making it mandatory for employers to provide formal CPR training programmes at the workplace. This is to ensure employees feel confident and prepared to respond to emergencies.
In summary, efforts should be made to promote public awareness campaigns, integrate CPR training into school curricula, and encourage workplaces to provide regular CPR training for employees. By prioritising CPR education, seeking out training opportunities, and regularly refreshing and practising the skills, we can equip ourselves with the knowledge and confidence to take life-saving action when the need arises. Let us work towards building a safer and more prepared society by spreading awareness about the importance of CPR. Every individual has the potential to make a difference and save lives through CPR, and we must empower ourselves and others with these critical skills.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
