Adventist Youth Honors Answer Book/First aid/Heart attack

A heart attack is when blood supply to part of the heart is interrupted causing heart tissue to die. Symptoms of a heart attack include severe chest pain, looking pale, sweating, and feeling sick. A heart attack is a medical emergency, and it is a leading cause of death for both men and women. First aid includes the following: Seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Help the patient to rest in a position which minimizes breathing difficulties. A half-sitting position with knees bent is often recommended. Give access to more oxygen, e.g. by opening the window and widening the collar for easier breathing; but keep the patient warm, e.g. by a blanket or a jacket Give aspirin, if the patient is not allergic to aspirin. Aspirin inhibits formation of further blood clots. Non-coated or soluble preparations are preferred. These should be chewed or dissolved, respectively, to facilitate quicker absorption. If the patient cannot swallow, the aspirin can be placed under the tongue. U.S. guidelines recommend a dose of 160 – 325 mg. Australian guidelines recommend a dose of 150 – 300 mg. If it has been prescribed for the patient, give nitroglycerin tablets under the tongue. Monitor pulse, breathing, level of consciousness and, if possible, the blood pressure of the patient continually. Administer CPR if the victim is unconscious and non-breathing.