I will take a CPR class when I get a chance and do
some research on what to do if a person faints,
is having symtoms of a heart attack, has a seizure
and so on. The other day at work one of the
students fainted. She told the security guard that
she has muscular type disorder and that caused
her to faint. That situation upset me because I know
the student and she was fine when she arrived in
the building. Also, last year one of my coworkers
had a seizer. That was scary because I know
people who have epilepsy but I never saw them
have an attack. Good thing that I have alot of
coworkers and a few of them knew what to do
until the EMS arrived. I am still in shock about
the student fainting the other day.

True. You never know when you may need
to use that knowledge to help save a life
of family, friends and even strangers.

I took a class in jr. High like 20-25 years ago. That's back when the focus was on both blood flow AND breathing for the victim. I've heard lately that the focus on the breathing has lessened and that the focus should be on blood flow/chest pumping as oxygen levels in the blood stay high for long periods, especially in an inactive body. Taking into account how long many can hold breath for extended periods and not die or get brain damage lends itself to this idea. Most synchronized swimmers know what their name is.


Sad side story...waaaaay back in jr high, there was a "not-so-pretty" girl who took the class with us. There was only so man CPR dolls and everyone refused to share one with the "not-so-pretty" girl. U could see the instructor notice what was happening and u could see the inability in his face as to how he should rectify the situation...so he just rode it out. One of my not so proud moments in life...as I was never no Leo DiCaprio or Mr. Clooney.

Just got certified yesterday

Revolution said:

What did they say about the relationship between the importance of breathing versus pumping the heart?

BobGeorge909 said:

30 pumps - 2 breaths. Repeat for two min intervals. Pumps are at a quick pace. Breaths need to raise the chest and release. If u don't release u run the risk of air getting into the stomach instead of lungs.

Pumps need to compress the chest at least two inches, depending on the size of the person. Instructor said that bones may break, but bones heal.

Revolution said:

Yup...that's different than what I was taught WAAAAY back when. Good stuff.

I will be posting some info I will research on
line about first aid, and what to do in an
emergency, etc.

Symptoms of a heart attack in women:

1. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing,
fullness or pain in the center of the
chest. If it lasts more than a few
minutes or goes and comes back.

2. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms,
the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

3. Shortness of breath with or without
chest discomfort.

4. Other signs include breaking out in a
a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

5. As with men, a womans most common
heart attack symtom is chest pain or
discomfort.

Women are more likely than men to
experience some of the other common
symptoms, particularly shortness of
breath, nausea, vomiting and back or
jaw pain.

If a person has any of those signs, do
not wait more than 5 minutes before
calling for help. Call 911 and get to
a hospital right away.