Mary Alice Reporting –
Hands-only CPR is being emphasized through a new statewide campaign.
Every Minute Counts is part of the Bystander Care Initiative that encourages everyone to learn how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the event a member of the public or family would experience sudden cardiac arrest.
American Heart Association Communications Director Jennifer McNeil explains that there is a difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest.
“A heart attack can happen over time, [with symptoms like] some chest pain, maybe you have some issues leading up to the actual incident. Cardiac arrest is immediate. It’s an electrical problem. Your heart stops beating, and you need to intervene in that situation immediately.”
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine notes that, for cardiac arrest, quick action is key.
“It often takes two minutes before someone calls 911. [It’s] eight to thirty minutes before first responders arrive. With each passing minute the chance of survival ticks down.”
A short education video to learn hands-only CPR can be viewed online at www.heart.org and for more details on the state’s new campaign, go to www.ems.ohio.gov/everyminutecounts.
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