Osan recognizes National CPR /AED awareness week Published June 1, 2009 By by Ms. Erica Anderson 51st Medical Group OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The first week of June will mark the second National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Difribillator Awareness Week. This week brings attention to the problem of sudden cardiac arrest as well as the significance of CPR skills and AED access and training. Most cardiac emergencies occur outside the hospital and the first people on the scene are usually family members or friends of the victim. If these people know and perform CPR, and have quick access to an AED the chances of survival for the victim increase by as much as 40 percent. Sudden cardiac arrest strikes not only the elderly or unfit, but can also strike athletes and even children. The most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest is coronary artery disease, but it can also be a result of a respiratory arrest like choking or drowning or even a traumatic accident. It is imperative that everyone know the life saving skills to perform CPR, and be confident in those skills if a situation arises. Knowing CPR is just one step in what is called the "chain of survival." This chain contains four links, and following these links will help ensure that the victim has the best chance for survival. The first link in the chain is "early access." This begins with recognizing and acting on the warning signs of a cardiac emergency. Signs may include chest discomfort that can radiate to the back, neck, arm, or jaw, shortness of breath, nausea, cold sweats and/or lightheadedness. If any of these signs are experienced, it is imperative that the individual receive early access to care by calling emergency services immediately. The next link in the chain is early CPR. CPR must be performed immediately for a victim who is unresponsive and not breathing. CPR consists of both chest compressions and rescue breathing and will ensure that blood and oxygen are delivered to the vital organ until the victim's heart resumes pumping. CPR is followed by early defi brillation. This is the use of an automated external defibrillator on the victim as soon as one becomes available. Most cardiac emergencies are a direct result of an abnormal heart rhythm. These victims need to receive an electrical shock to restore their rhythm to normal. An AED is portable and should be applied as soon as you know the victim is not responsive and not breathing. The AED wlll then analyze the victim's heart rhythm and shock that rhythm if appropriate. The last link on the chain is early advanced care. This means the victim receives treatment by a qualified medical team as soon as possible. This usually starts with the EMTs or paramedics that arrive on the scene, and continues through the victim's time in the hospital. The speed at which this chain is activated makes an immense difference in the outcome of the victim; in fact, it can be the difference between life and death. Every minute that a victim goes without CPR and AED use, their chance of survival drops by 7-10 percent! The goal of the American Heart Association and American Red Cross during National CPR and AED Awareness Week is to train one million people in CPR. Osan will be doing irs part by hosting a mass training event at the Community Center in effort to train 250 people at Osan alone. We encourage entire units to attend classes together that week and learn the lifesaving skills of CPR and AED use. If you or your unit is interested in attending, please contact the 51 MDG Education and Training Office at 784-9131 to reserve seats, or send an email to the BLS Program Coordinator, Ms. Erica Anderson at erica.anderson@ osan.af.mil.