Learn vital CPR skill (From Andover Advertiser)

Potentially life-saving technique promoted by ambulance service

5:00pm Monday 4th March 2013 in Basingstoke By Helen Morton

A POTENTIALLY life-saving technique is being promoted by a local ambulance service.

Hands-only CPR is a simple technique that can buy vital minutes for a patient suffering a cardiac arrest, and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) is encouraging members of the public to learn the skill.

It has been estimated that in the absence of any treatment, the chances of a successful resuscitation reduces by ten per cent every minute.

Richard Tracey, SCAS community responder manager, said: “If an adult has suddenly collapsed, is not breathing normally and is unresponsive, then they are suffering a cardiac arrest and you’ve no time to lose.

“Even if you’re untrained, your actions can help to save their life.”

Mr Tracey said that after calling 999, it is important to push hard and fast in the centre of the patient’s chest about 100-120 times a minute until an ambulances arrives.

For more information, and to see the technique in practice, visit scas.nhs.uk/campaigns/hands-onlycpr.ashx, where footballer-turned-actor Vinnie Jones demonstrates the hands-only CPR to the tune of Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees.

While this technique will buy some time, patients also need a shock from a defibrillator – which can be used by lay individuals including Community First Responders (CFRs).

Because CFRs respond in the immediate vicinity of where they live or work, they often arrive before an ambulance and are equipped to provide vital and early lifesaving intervention while an ambulance is en route to the scene.

South Central Ambulance Service is looking for more people to volunteer as first responders.

For more information about becoming a CFR call 0800 587 0207 or email cfr@scas.nhs.uk.