HANDS-ONLY CPR 2015 FACT SHEET
THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING HANDS-ONLY CPR
Cardiac arrest, characterized by a disruption in the heart’s electrical system leading to irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), is a significant contributor to mortality rates. In the United States alone, more than 326,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of medical facilities each year.
- Immediate CPR from bystanders is crucial for survival when someone experiences a cardiac arrest.
- The American Heart Association highlights that 90% of individuals who suffer cardiac arrests outside a hospital do not survive. However, prompt CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival for a victim.
- A significant number of Americans (70%) feel incapable of assisting during a cardiac crisis due to lack of knowledge about CPR or fear of causing injury to the victim.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES
In an emergency requiring CPR, you are likely attempting to save someone dear to you: a child, partner, parent, or friend.
- Approximately 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in homes or similar environments.
- Sadly, only about 39% of individuals experiencing a cardiac arrest outside a hospital receive timely assistance before emergency services arrive.
- Hands-Only CPR has proven to be as effective as traditional CPR for cardiac arrests happening at home, work, or in public settings, potentially doubling or tripling the chance of survival.
THE POWER OF MUSIC IN SAVING LIVES
- Hands-Only CPR involves just two straightforward steps: If you witness a teenager or adult collapse, (1) Call 9-1-1; and (2) Push firmly and quickly in the center of the chest to the rhythm of the disco hit “Stayin’ Alive.”
- People tend to feel more assured when administering Hands-Only CPR and remember the appropriate rhythm better when guided by a familiar song.
- During CPR, aim for a compression rate of at least 100 per minute, and the tempo of “Stayin’ Alive” aligns perfectly with this requirement.
SPARE A MOMENT TO LEARN HOW TO SAVE A LIFE
- Check out the brief demonstration video. Visit org/handsonlycpr to view the Hands-Only CPR instructional video and share it with loved ones. You can also locate a CPR class in your area.
NOTE: The AHA continues to advocate for CPR that includes compressions and breaths for infants, children, and situations involving drowning, drug overdose, or individuals who collapse due to breathing issues.
