First aid experts urge immediate action during cardiac arrest

Experts from the Red Cross emphasize the critical importance of immediate action during cardiac arrest. Tina Jakopič Aškerc notes that starting resuscitation immediately can increase survival rates by two to four times.

Many bystanders hesitate to provide first aid due to fears of causing injury, such as breaking ribs, or a lack of confidence in their skills. However, medical experts warn that waiting is more dangerous; irreversible brain damage can begin after just four minutes without resuscitation, and death can occur within ten minutes.

In emergency situations, individuals are advised to check for responsiveness and breathing. If the person is not breathing, the airway should be cleared by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. If the bystander is untrained, they should immediately call 112 for dispatcher instructions. Effective resuscitation involves a combination of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths, alongside the use of an automated external defibrillator every two minutes.