…..to the scene. Loosen restrictive clothing and make the person as comfortable as possible. Avoid giving anything to eat or drink if they are thirsty; moisten their lips only with water. Try to keep the person relaxed as any exertion will lead to the heart having to work harder, and the potential for deterioration and further damage exists.
If available, it is considered good practice (unless the person is known to be allergic) to assist the person in taking dissolvable aspirin (300mg). (ANZCOR Guideline 9.2.1).
Avoid moving a person having a heart attack unnecessarily. Please do not take them to the hospital by car. The increased movement may also lead to further damage. Performing CPR in a vehicle proves very difficult.
If in doubt, call them out
Tomorrow we will be another heart related condition, Angina…..
Click here to learn more and find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
Currently, there are temporary changes to the steps to be followed in resuscitation. These can be found in the video below or by clicking here to see the New Zealand Resuscitation Council temporary guideline recommendation.
Click the link to go to the New Zealand Resuscitation Council Covid-19 recommended modifications for delivering resuscitation whilst the pandemic remains a threat. Click play to see a short video outlining CPR modifications that should be followed during the pandemic.
Click here to find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
To learn more from the experts about previously covered conditions click their logo below.
Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that variances in protocols exist and where necessary are identified.