How To Be Prepared For Cardiac Arrest At Home?

When thinking of heart emergencies, most people picture busy hospital emergency rooms. But did you know that a lot of cardiac emergencies happen in homes? Cardiac arrest strikes without warning and happens to people of all ages and at any time. Being ready for a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest can mean the difference between life and death.

No wonder why healthcare professionals recommend patients with cardiovascular conditions to carry automated defibrillators. However, the question remains- How to be prepared for a sudden cardiac arrest at home? Well, here are some best tips to follow. But before that, let’s understand the signs of sudden cardiac arrest. 

What are the Early Warning Signs of Cardiac Arrest?

Ever wondered why healthcare professionals rely on an automated defibrillator machine during emergencies? Well, because it is a critical tool that helps monitor a patient’s heart conditions during cardiac arrest. So what are the signs of sudden cardiac arrest? Doubting if you should seek immediate medical attention? If you relate to these signs, then the answer is yes:

• Palpitations or a racing heartbeat 
• Sudden loss of consciousness
• Irregular or absent breathing 
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Fainting during or immediately after exercise
• Unexplained frequent fainting 
• Seizures during or after exercise
• No pulse 
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Extreme shortness of breath 

By knowing these warning signs, people can identify cardiac arrest. However, it is always recommended to seek professional guidance and support, especially for patients with high blood pressure. Individuals must also keep track of their readings by relying on blood pressure monitors at home. For emergencies, you can rely on a portable defibrillator machine. 

Tips to Be Prepared for Cardiac Arrest at Home

Now that you know the signs of sudden cardiac arrest, here is how you should prepare yourself for unforeseen situations:

• Automated External Defibrillator 

To prepare for a sudden cardiac arrest, you must keep automated defibrillators with you at home or on the go. AED is a portable device that assists in restoring a regular heartbeat. These devices come with clear voice cues and are simple to use. However, remember as the AED analyses or shocks the patient, make sure no one is touching them. 

Using AED within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest can increase the rates of survival. These devices are also easy to use since they are made for both professionals and laypeople. However, to maintain your AED operating at peak efficiency, make sure you have spare pads and batteries. 

• CPR Face Shield

Providing rescue breaths is crucial during a heart emergency. Both the victim and the CPR giver can benefit from using a face shield or mask. To get immediate access, make sure everyone in the household is aware of its location. 

Also, make sure that it is simple to access. After a cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can increase a person’s chances of life by two or three times. It restarts the heart by delivering blood flow to the brain and heart. 

• Create a Response Plan

When it comes to preparing for cardiac emergencies, creating a response plan is the key. Since it may come without a warning sign, you never know who in your household might have a sudden cardiac arrest. This involves:

• Talking about what to do in the event of a cardiac emergency with your family members. 
• Assign someone to be in charge of contacting emergency services, administering CPR and locating the automated defibrillator machine. 
• Once created, practice your emergency plan frequently as knowing what to do can save critical seconds and lives.
• Be it defibrillators or compatible pads, store all emergency tools in a location that is easy and quick to access. Also, make sure to inform households about the exact location. 
• Encourage open conversations around cardiac emergencies including resources and training since different family members may have varying levels of understanding. 

Therefore, it is crucial to create a proper response plan and to have everyone practice different roles. Preparation of cardiac emergencies ensures peace of mind and as well may save lives without delays. 

• Emergency Contact 

In addition to defibrillators, you must also keep an emergency contact list updated at all times. This includes:

• Emergency services- 911
• Contact details of your healthcare professional
• Contact details of reliable family members 

In addition to seeking medical assistance, make sure you unlock the entrance of your home to let in first responders immediately. 

What Lifestyle Changes Can Help Prevent a Heart Attack?

When it comes to fighting against your heart disease, the best results come from lifestyle changes. Heart conditions are mostly silent making you think you are leading a healthy life. Besides, carrying a portable defibrillator with you everywhere, here are some lifestyle changes that will make a huge difference:

• If you are a smoker, then it’s time to quit. Instead, rely on nicotine replacement therapy, if you find it difficult. 
• Switch from an unhealthy to a healthy diet to fight heart disease. Include vitamins, minerals, vegetables, fruits, etc. 
• Reduce or limit your intake of saturated fat and trans fat to reduce the risk of heart attack. 
• Make sure your blood pressure level is well maintained at all times. 
• Try to be more physically active and engage in activities like walking, exercise, etc. While engaging in activities, start slow and remember to carry your portable defibrillator everywhere for unforeseen situations. 
• Manage diabetes and aim for a healthy weight. 
• Get a good quality amount of sleep daily. 

Be Prepared to Save Lives Anytime

At MedGuard, we understand the increasing rate of cardiac attack. To help families and individuals be prepared to respond to this emergency, we offer high-quality portable defibrillators. To increase the rates of survival during cardiac emergencies, we keep ourselves well-stocked. 

For years, we have been catering to home care, hospitals and clinics and have become our customer’s first choice. Be it prompt delivery, reasonable pricing or customer service, we never fail to meet expectations. For more personalised guidance or queries, you can contact us today without any hesitation.