CPR Primer

Knowing these actions can help save a life.

A heart attack causes cardiac arrest when so much heart tissue has been damaged it stops pumping blood. A person is considered clinically dead when his or her heart stops, but they may be resuscitated. This may be achieved through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), which consists of two basic life-support skills: Artificial respiration provides oxygen to the lungs while chest compressions keep blood circulating through the body.

The first thing you should do if you suspect a heart attack is to send or go for medical help. Then begin CPR. Here's how:

Information courtesy of St. John's Ambulance