A discovery that could save lives
As you could read in our previous culture blog, we organize monthly discovery lunches with our team. But this one, in particular, was really important to us because what we learned that afternoon could possibly save lives.
A while ago, our co-worker lost a family member to cardiac arrest. It really made us think and so we decided to take action and make sure we were prepared in case of an emergency. We contacted the local Red Cross and organized a CPR and AED training session at our office. We were informed that when you start performing CPR immediately, the victim's chances of survival double or even triple!
What most of us didn’t know was this: the word 'cardiac arrest' makes it seem as if the heart completely stops beating. A better word is circulatory arrest: the blood circulation has stopped. The organs no longer receive blood and oxygen, so chest compressions and artificial respiration can maintain this circulation.
Most people have heard of CPR, but many don't know what an AED is and what it does. An AED, or automated external defibrillator, delivers an electrical shock to the heart, which can help it to reset it and start beating. It's a portable device that you can find in public places like airports and malls. You don't need to be trained to use one - the machine will give you instructions on what to do. Where to find one near you? The Red Cross has an application with all of that information and more.
The session itself was interactive and informative, and it gave us all the tools we need. Frankly, we think this training should be part of every education program. It is a valuable skill that could one day save a friend, co-worker, family member, or even a complete stranger. Who knows, someday you might be the one who needs CPR!
Bottom line is: Every second counts when someone's life is on the line, so don't hesitate to act. You could be the difference between life and death.
