Cardiac arrest is one of the most serious medical emergencies. It happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood, leading to loss of breathing and consciousness. Without immediate action, it can cause death within minutes.
✅ What is Cardiac Arrest?
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A sudden stop in the heart’s function.
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The brain and other vital organs do not receive oxygen.
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The person collapses, becomes unresponsive, and stops breathing.
🔹 Causes of Cardiac Arrest
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Heart-related causes
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Heart attack (blockage of blood supply to heart muscle).
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Abnormal heart rhythms (ventricular fibrillation, tachycardia).
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Other medical conditions
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Severe trauma or blood loss.
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Drowning or suffocation.
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Electric shock.
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Drug overdose.
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🔹 Signs & Symptoms
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Sudden collapse.
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No response to shouting or shaking.
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No breathing or only gasping.
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No pulse (heartbeat).
👉 If these signs are present, immediate CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is required.
🔹 Why Every Second Counts
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Within 4–6 minutes, the brain starts getting damaged due to lack of oxygen.
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After 10 minutes, survival chances are extremely low without CPR or defibrillation.
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Quick CPR and use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can double or triple survival rates.
📌 Real-Life Scenario
A man suddenly collapses in an office. Colleagues see he is not breathing.
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One calls emergency services.
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Another starts CPR immediately.
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An AED is brought and used within 5 minutes.
👉 Because of quick action, the person’s life is saved.
🎯 Learning Outcome of This Lesson
By the end of this lesson, learners will:
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Understand what cardiac arrest is and why it’s so dangerous.
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Identify the common causes of cardiac arrest.
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Recognize the early signs and symptoms.
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Realize the importance of immediate CPR and AED use.