When cardiac arrest happens, the best chance for survival often rests with the people nearby. Yet 2 in 3 people still mistakenly believe only those with special training should perform CPR, a misconception that costs lives.[1] Today, on World Restart a Heart Day, the American Heart Association's Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative is challenging communities everywhere to make lifesaving action a social norm by helping more people realize they have the power and ability to step in during a cardiac emergency. You don't need to be a medical professional; you just need to be willing. If you see a teen or adult who has suddenly collapsed and is not breathing normally, call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest until help arrives.
Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital in the United States, and approximately 90% of people who experience these events do not survive.[2] Survival often depends on how quickly people nearby recognize the emergency, call 911, begin CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED).[3]
"Too many people hesitate during a cardiac emergency because they believe lifesaving action should be left to medical professionals," said Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, chief of cardiology and pharmacology at Duke University School of Medicine. "World Restart a Heart Day is a reminder that parents, neighbors, coworkers, friends and family members are often the first people on the scene. We want to create a culture where everyone has the best chance to survive because everyone is prepared—and confident—to step in and provide CPR."
The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is encouraging communities to join the Nation of Lifesavers on World Restart a Heart Day and create a culture where everyone has the best chance of survival.
- Learn CPR. Watch a short CPR demonstration video or take a CPR course to gain the skills and confidence to act during an emergency. CPR is not just a skill for medical professionals. Research shows that children as young as 9 can learn CPR, making it a valuable skill for the whole family.[4]
