Basic Life Support
Basic life support (BLS) refers to the immediate medical care provided to a person who is experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency. In order to provide effective BLS, it is important to understand the vital organs and systems that are essential to sustaining life.
The heart is a vital organ responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. It is responsible for providing oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body. The normal heart rate for an adult at rest is typically between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Heart attack, heart block, and cardiac arrest are three different medical conditions that affect the heart.
a Heart attack is a blockage in the blood flow to the heart. The symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort in the arm. The treatment includes Aspirin, Angioplasty or Bypass surgery.
a Heart block is a type of abnormal electrical impulse that controls the heartbeat are delayed or blocked, causing a slow heartbeat. Some people with heart block may require a pacemaker.
a Cardiac arrest is the sudden loss of heart function. During cardiac arrest, the heart stop beating completely, causing a lack of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs, leading to brain damage or death if not treated immediately.
The following are the basic steps of BLS in Cardiac arrest:
Check for responsiveness: Shake the person and shout, "Are you okay?" If there is no response, call for emergency medical services (EMS) and start CPR immediately.
Perform chest compressions (CPR): Place the heel of one hand on the centre of the person's chest, with the other hand on top. Push down hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches. Perform compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute.
Give rescue breaths: Pinch the person's nose closed, place your mouth over theirs, and blow two rescue breaths into their mouth. Watch for the chest to rise with each breath. If the chest doesn't rise, reposition the head and try again.
Continue CPR: Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths until help arrives, or the person starts to breathe on their own. Be sure to switch with another rescuer every 2 minutes to avoid fatigue.
Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator): If an AED is available, turn it on and follow the instructions to attach the pads to the person's chest. The AED will analyze the person's heart rhythm and deliver a shock if needed.
If you have a team of at least 100 candidates and are interested in participating in Common Emergencies management and Basic Life Support training programs, please contact the coordinator (+91 9656000521) to schedule a session at your location. We look forward to helping you and your team improve your skills and knowledge.
Training at ABC Academy, Kottakkal
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