In emergency situations, many people hesitate to perform CPR, often due to concerns about the potential spread of germs. However, there’s no need for concern with the new method known as Hands-Only CPR, which is highly effective in saving lives during cardiac arrest.
Cardiac arrest occurs when an electrical malfunction in the heart causes an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, disrupting blood flow to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs. It’s a leading cause of death worldwide, with more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring in the United States each year. When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, survival often depends on receiving immediate CPR from a bystander. In fact, a person typically only has about four minutes to get help before the situation becomes dire, as it takes that long for professional responders to arrive on the scene.
According to the American Heart Association, about 90% of those who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest die because they do not receive timely help. Performing CPR immediately can double or even triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. With the risk being so high, it’s crucial that more people feel empowered to act in an emergency.
Hands-Only CPR, which involves chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth contact, has been shown to be just as effective in the critical first few minutes after a cardiac arrest. If you witness someone collapse, it’s vital to act quickly. The first step is to call 911 for help. Afterward, begin performing chest compressions by pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest. Aim for a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute — this pace can be matched to the rhythm of a well-known song, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.”
In our community, local resources such as Jewish Pavilion Senior Services (JPSS) and the Orlando Senior Help Desk (OSHD) are dedicated to providing valuable support for seniors and their families. JPSS offers various programs and services aimed at enhancing the well-being of older adults, while the OSHD assists families in navigating healthcare options, including emergency preparedness and education on life-saving skills like CPR. These organizations play a key role in ensuring that our elderly residents are well cared for and that family members are informed and prepared to take action in critical situations.
Remember, your quick response in an emergency can make all the difference. By learning Hands-Only CPR and staying informed about local resources, we can help ensure that more lives are saved in our community.Thank you,
Jewish Pavilion Senior Services
-
Nancy Ludin CFO
- September 23, 2025
- (407) 678-9363
- Send Email
