Lifeline

Can a patient ever be saved once the heart has stopped beating?
Yes. Although the majority of people whose heart has stopped beating do die, it is possible to save a considerable number of them if prompt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is instituted.

How soon after cardiac arrest must Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation be started?
It must be begun immediately. Unless Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is instituted within a few minutes, the patient will succumb.

How can a first–aider know that CPR should be carried out?

• He notes an unconscious patient.
• He feels for a pulse in the neck and does not find it.
• He listens with his ear over the heart and hears no beat.
• He looks for respirations and finds none.

Is CPR indicated when there is a heartbeat but no obvious breathing?
No. In such cases only mouth–to–mouth artificial respiration is indicated.

Does the heart ever stop beating and respirations continue?
No. Once the heart stops, breathing stops.

Can anyone carry out CPR?
Yes, but it is much better if a trained person does it. Civilians are being trained all over the country in the techniques of this life saving procedure.