A heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. Every second counts, and knowing what to do in such a situation can mean the difference between life and death. Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually due to a clot. Quick and effective response can help minimize damage and improve survival chances.
At Parijat Nursing Care & Solutions, we understand the importance of emergency care and post-heart attack recovery. In this blog, we’ll discuss five life-saving steps to take during a heart attack, ensuring you and your loved ones are prepared to act fast in a crisis.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Before we discuss life-saving steps, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. Some of the most common warning signs include:
✔️ Chest pain or discomfort (tightness, pressure, or squeezing sensation)
✔️ Shortness of breath
✔️ Pain spreading to the arms, neck, jaw, or back
✔️ Dizziness or lightheadedness
✔️ Cold sweats
✔️ Nausea or vomiting
If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms, take immediate action.
Step 1: Call Emergency Services Immediately
The first and most crucial step during a heart attack is calling for emergency medical help. In India, dial 108 for an ambulance or your local emergency number.
Why This Is Important
- Heart attack victims need immediate medical intervention.
- Emergency responders can provide oxygen, medication, and transport to a hospital quickly.
- Delaying medical help increases the risk of heart damage or death.
What to Do
- Stay calm and call emergency services without delay.
- If you are with the patient, provide their location and symptoms to the dispatcher.
- If alone, use a mobile phone or voice assistant to call for help.
Step 2: Keep the Person Calm and Still
During a heart attack, the heart is under immense stress. Moving too much or panicking can worsen the situation.
Why This Is Important
- Reduces strain on the heart.
- Prevents sudden cardiac arrest.
- Helps slow down the progression of the heart attack.
What to Do
- If possible, sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
- Reassure the person and keep them as calm as possible.
- Encourage slow, deep breaths to reduce anxiety.
Step 3: Chew and Swallow Aspirin (If Available)
Aspirin is known to thin the blood and prevent further clotting, which can help restore blood flow to the heart.
Why This Is Important
- Helps prevent further blockage of the arteries.
- Can reduce the severity of the heart attack.
- Increases the chances of survival if taken early.
What to Do
- Chew (do not swallow whole) a 325mg aspirin tablet, unless allergic or advised against it by a doctor.
- If baby aspirin (81mg) is available, take four tablets.
- Do not take aspirin with alcohol or caffeinated drinks.
⚠️ Note: Aspirin should not be taken if the person has a history of aspirin allergy or severe bleeding disorders.
Step 4: Perform CPR If Necessary
If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) must be performed immediately.
Why This Is Important
- Helps maintain blood circulation to vital organs.
- Can prevent brain damage or death.
- Keeps the person alive until emergency help arrives.
What to Do (If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally)
- Lay the person flat on their back.
- Begin chest compressions:
- Place both hands (one on top of the other) in the center of the chest.
- Push hard and fast (at least 100-120 compressions per minute).
- Allow the chest to rise between compressions.
- Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available.
- Continue CPR until emergency responders arrive.
Step 5: Avoid Eating or Drinking Anything
During a heart attack, the digestive system slows down, and consuming food or drink can cause complications.
Why This Is Important
- Eating or drinking can increase nausea and vomiting.
- It may interfere with medications administered by emergency responders.
- In case surgery is needed, an empty stomach is safer.
What to Do
- Do not give the person any food, water, or medication (other than aspirin, if advised).
- Keep the airway clear in case of nausea.
Why Early Action Saves Lives
A heart attack can escalate quickly, leading to cardiac arrest if not treated on time. Acting within the first few minutes increases survival chances significantly. By taking these five life-saving steps, you can help prevent fatal complications and improve recovery outcomes.
Key Takeaways
✅ Call emergency services immediately (108 in India).
✅ Keep the person calm and still to reduce strain on the heart.
✅ Chew an aspirin to help prevent blood clots.
✅ Perform CPR if the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing.
✅ Avoid giving food or drink to prevent further complications.
Post-Heart Attack Care with Parijat Nursing Care & Solutions
Surviving a heart attack is just the first step. Proper post-heart attack care is crucial for recovery and preventing future cardiac issues.
At Parijat Nursing Care & Solutions, we provide expert home nursing services, including:
✔️ Post-heart attack monitoring and care.
✔️ Physiotherapy for cardiac rehabilitation.
✔️ Diet and lifestyle guidance for heart health.
✔️ Medication management and routine check-ups.
If you or a loved one has suffered a heart attack, our skilled nurses and physiotherapists offer personalized care at home in Jaipur, ensuring a smooth and safe recovery.
Book Home Care Services Today!
Taking action at the right time can save lives and improve recovery outcomes. If you or a loved one needs expert post-heart attack care at home, contact Parijat Nursing Care & Solutions today!
📞 Call us now or visit www.parijatnursingcare.com to book an appointment.