1 Recognizing Cardiac Emergencies Free Online FlashCards

How does a heart attack differ from cardiac arrest?

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked; cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping effectively.

What chest symptoms can signal a heart attack?

Possible signs include chest pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

Why should suspected heart attack symptoms be treated urgently?

Symptoms vary, and not everyone has chest pain. Treat suspected heart attack symptoms as an emergency rather than waiting to see if they pass.

What signs commonly suggest cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest often presents as sudden collapse, unresponsiveness, and absent or abnormal breathing.

Are occasional gasps normal breathing?

No. Occasional gasps, snorts, or irregular breaths are abnormal, not normal breathing.

Should a lay rescuer delay care to check for a pulse?

Do not delay care to check for a pulse. Assess responsiveness and whether breathing is normal.

What should you check before approaching someone in an emergency?

Approach only if it is safe to help.

How do you check whether a person is responsive?

Tap the person and ask loudly, “Are you OK?” If there is no response, call out for help.

What information should you give emergency services?

Call 911 in the United States, or the local emergency number. Give the dispatcher the location and what happened, and follow their instructions.

How can bystanders divide tasks during a cardiac emergency?

If others are present, direct one person to call emergency services and another to get an AED, if available.

What should you do for an unresponsive person who is not breathing normally?

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, activate emergency services and begin CPR immediately.

What should you do when an AED arrives?

Use an AED as soon as it arrives and follow its prompts.