Call-Push-Shock

Call-Push-Shock is a public awareness campaign aimed at encouraging bystanders to take immediate action when they witness someone experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The campaign emphasizes a three-step process designed to increase the chances of survival for the victim: calling emergency services, performing hands-only CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). This approach is based on the understanding that quick and decisive action can significantly impact the outcome for someone experiencing an SCA.

Overview

Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, leading to a cessation of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Without immediate intervention, death can occur within minutes. The Call-Push-Shock campaign seeks to demystify the response process for bystanders, breaking it down into manageable actions that can be performed even by those with minimal or no training in CPR or AED use.

Call

The first step, "Call," emphasizes the importance of immediately calling emergency services (typically by dialing 911 in the United States) upon recognizing the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest. This ensures that professional medical help is on the way as quickly as possible. The dispatcher can also provide guidance and support to the caller, including instructions on how to perform CPR and use an AED if available.

Push

"Push" refers to performing hands-only CPR, a simplified CPR method recommended for bystanders who are not trained in conventional CPR. This technique involves pressing hard and fast in the center of the victim's chest, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, without the need for rescue breaths. Hands-only CPR has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR in the first few minutes following a sudden cardiac arrest.

Shock

The final step, "Shock," involves the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). AEDs are portable devices designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart, with the aim of restoring a normal heart rhythm. AEDs are increasingly available in public places and are designed to be used by laypersons. The device provides verbal instructions to guide the user through the process, making it accessible even to those without prior training.

Impact

Research indicates that the Call-Push-Shock approach can significantly improve survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest when performed promptly. Public awareness campaigns like Call-Push-Shock play a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of immediate action and the simplicity of the steps that can be taken to save a life.

See Also

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Automated external defibrillator
• Sudden cardiac arrest
• Emergency medical services