BUSTING COMMON CPR MYTHS
In the UK, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death, and for every minute CPR is not provided to a cardiac arrest victim, their chances of survival drop by 7-10%. Swift action in these situations really can mean life of death, so why do only half of UK adults feel confident they could give CPR a go?
At Sevenoaks Medical Centre, we’re exploring the most common misconceptions you may have around CPR that could be stopping you giving it a go in an emergency situation:
- “What if I do it wrong?”
During a cardiac arrest, the heart has stopped beating and you are considered clinically dead. You can’t make it worse! It’s always better to do something than nothing.
“What if I get sued?”
Since 1985’s Good Samaritan Act, people who attempt to help others are protected legally. No one in the UK has ever been successfully sued for carrying out CPR. - “What if I contract a disease?”
Research has shown that hands-only CPR (no mouth to mouth) is just as effective as full CPR. If you don’t feel comfortable or confident, hands-only CPR is still effective.
So, have we convinced you yet?
Join us on Tuesday 25th February for our CPR Awareness Event, hosted by Sevenoaks Medical Centre in partnership with Everyone Active, at Sevenoaks Leisure Centre where we aim to equip you with essential life-saving skills.
Jamie Morrison, Lead Resuscitation Officer at KIMS Hospital and Sevenoaks Medical Centre, is a certified instructor and will lead this interactive session covering crucial topics such as:
- Recognising a cardiac arrest
- How to perform chest compressions
- Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
You will have the opportunity to practice your new skills on a manikin and receive personalised feedback.
Give it a go, you could just save a life! Register your FREE place today.
Author: Helen Loder
Co-Director of Sevenoaks Mums