“Each year approximately 4,000 individuals in Maryland suffer sudden cardiac arrest. Bystanders are a vital link in the chain of survival by immediately calling 911 and starting hands-only CPR when someone collapses from a suspected cardiac arrest until help from EMS arrives. Prompt response by bystanders combined with EMS care will optimize the victim’s chances of survival and recovery.” – Dr. Robert Bass, Executive Director, Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems.
Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 350,000 Americans die each year from Sudden Cardiac Arrest which is more than lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and AIDS combined. It is not something that only affects elderly or sick people. More than 2,000 young people (under 25) die each year. Many victims appear healthy and have no known risk factors.
CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is intended to keep blood moving in people whose hearts have stopped and help keep someone alive until an emergency medical team arrives. In April 2008, the American Heart Association (AHA) took steps to simplify the process of helping victims of cardiac arrest by introducing “hands-only” CPR. Hands-Only CPR is recommended for use on adults who suddenly collapse. It consists of two steps:
1. Call 911 (or send someone to do that).
2. Begin providing high-quality chest compressions by pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest with minimal interruptions.
Towson University senior nursing students will provide a free training to students, staff and faculty. The hands-only CPR event will teach individuals on how to correctly perform CPR without being certified.
This event will take place at West Village Commons on October 16, 2013, from 2 to 5 p.m.
If you need any additional information, please contact Eli Ellenberg at eellen2@students.towson.edu, Amanda Gdulla at agdula1@students.towson.edu or Prof. Catherine Publico at 410-704-4209 or cpublico@towson.edu.
For additional information on hands-only CPR, please go to the American Heart Association’s hands-only CPR website.
