Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency that happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively to the brain and body. It often happens without warning and can affect people of any age, including those with no known heart condition.

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When sudden cardiac arrest happens, immediate action is needed. Calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED as quickly as possible can help give someone their best chance of survival.

Understanding SCA

The heart is controlled by an electrical system that keeps it beating in a steady rhythm. During sudden cardiac arrest, this electrical system can malfunction, causing the heart to beat irregularly or stop pumping blood effectively.

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When blood is not moving properly, the brain and other vital organs are deprived of oxygen. Brain injury can begin within minutes, which is why fast action from bystanders is so important.

Signs of a SCA

A person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest may suddenly collapse, become unresponsive, and stop breathing normally. They may not be breathing at all, or they may be making gasping sounds.

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Gasping is not normal breathing. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 911 immediately, start CPR, and send someone to get the nearest AED.

SCA and
Heart Attack

Sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack are different medical emergencies.

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A heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked.

Sudden cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating or stops pumping blood effectively.

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Sudden cardiac arrest is sometimes referred to as an “electrical issue,” whereas a heart attack is often referred to as a “plumbing issue.”

A heart attack can sometimes lead to sudden cardiac arrest, but they are not the same thing.

The Importance of
Fast Action

During sudden cardiac arrest, there is no time to wait and see what happens. The person needs immediate help.

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CPR helps keep blood moving through the body. An AED can check the heart rhythm and deliver a shock if one is needed.

Together, CPR and AED use can double a person’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest.

Building Safer Communities

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere: at home, at work, at school, at a gym, in an arena, or in a public space.

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Knowing the signs, calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED can help save a life. Being prepared also means knowing where the nearest AED is and making sure publicly accessible AEDs are registered, visible, and ready to use.