Retired nurse David Knowles was under cardiac arrest during a CPR class. He was teaching first aid to a group of churchgoers when his pulse started to race.
Time to act
When he asked a student, Karol Chew, to assist him to lie down on the floor and place his legs up on a chair, the group realized that there is something wrong. Since Knowles was experienced in such matters, he remained calm. He knew what was happening to him and started to guide Chew on the steps needed to save his life.
When Knowles lost consciousness, Chew utilize the CPR skills she learned and started to pump his heart until the arrival of the paramedics. He woke up in a healthcare facility 2 ½ weeks later, confused and groggy.
As his memories steadily returned, he learned that he suffered a further cardiac arrest and a pulmonary embolism after admission in a healthcare facility. The doctors utilized 3 stents to open his arteries and implanted an internal defibrillator in his chest.
CPR on the line
Prompt delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential during emergencies. Bystanders should start this life-saving technique to improve the chances of survival.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in a first aid course and for more information, check out these sources:
Understand the Symptoms and Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest with Mayo Clinic.
Get Familiar with CPR Techniques and Guidelines on Healthline’s Website.
Learn About Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Treatment on WebMD.