YOU CAN SAVE LIVES!

CPR is vital because it temporarily takes over the heart's function. The rhythmic pressure on the chest pumps blood through the body, supplying the organs with much-needed oxygen. This is especially important for the brain, which is very sensitive to a lack of oxygen. CPR started immediately can double or even triple the chances of survival! It maintains circulation until professional help arrives or a defibrillator can be used. Remember: every second counts and your hands can save lives!

CPR is a technique in which you use your hands to press down rhythmically and forcefully on the chest of a person in cardiac arrest. This mimics the pumping action of the heart. Imagine squeezing a sponge and then releasing it - this is how CPR works with the heart. You place your hands one on top of the other in the middle of the chest and press down about 100 to 120 times per minute.

There are a few important points to consider when performing cardiac massage:
• Position: Kneel next to the person’s chest.
• Hand position: Place the ball of one hand in the middle of your chest and the other hand on top.
• Posture: Keep your arms straight and your shoulders directly over your hands.
• Rhythm: Press about 100 to 120 times per minute.
• Depth: Press the chest 5-6 cm deep.
• Release: Allow the chest to completely release after each compression.
• Continuity: Continue without interruption until help arrives.
• Rotation: If possible, rotate with someone every 2 minutes to avoid fatigue.
Remember: It is better to do something than to do nothing. Even if you are unsure, your action can save lives!

In adults, the chest should be compressed to a depth of about 5-6 cm. This may sound like a lot, but it is necessary to create effective blood flow. In children, about a third of the chest should be compressed.
Ribs may break or crack. This may sound frightening, but it is not uncommon and is no reason to stop CPR. Broken ribs are far less dangerous in this situation than cardiac arrest. Remember: you are trying to save a life! Any rib injuries can be treated later in the hospital. The most important thing is to carry on and maintain circulation.

For lay rescuers, "hands-only" CPR is recommended these days. This means you don't have to breathe. Concentrate fully on the chest compressions. The reason for this is that there is enough oxygen in the blood and lungs for a few minutes. The most important thing is to distribute this oxygen-rich blood throughout the body through the chest compressions.
Ventilation may be useful for trained first responders or medical personnel, but for most people it is more important to continue to perform CPR without interruption. Your hands alone can save lives!

Don't worry, it's perfectly normal that chest compressions are tiring and you may not be able to keep the perfect pace. The most important thing is that you do something! Any compression is better than none.

Here are some tips:
• Use your body weight: Lean over your arms so that your upper body provides the power, not just your arms.
• Take turns: If possible, ask someone else to take over from you after about 2 minutes.
• Take breaks when necessary: ​​Short breaks are okay if you need them to keep going.
• Stay in rhythm: Try to maintain a steady rhythm, even if it is a little slower.
• Encourage others to help: Often people are hesitant, but with your encouragement they may help.
Always remember: every compression increases the chance of survival. You are the best chance for that person at that moment, so don't give up!

In emergencies, every second can mean the difference between life and death. Sudden cardiac arrest can affect anyone, anywhere, at any time. It is therefore essential that defibrillators are always available and stored in a clearly visible location. In most countries, including Germany, there is no legal obligation for companies to purchase defibrillators. However, the working committee of the Federal Ministry for Occupational Safety and Health has defined (ASR A4.3 No. 3.4): “First aid resources include first aid materials (e.g. bandages, aids, rescue blankets) as well as medical devices (e.g. automated external defibrillator, ventilator) and medicines (e.g. antidote) required for first aid according to the risk assessment.” The employer must therefore decide on the basis of the risk assessment and within the framework of his duty of care whether a defibrillator is required in the company.

The employer's duty of care covers several areas. Among other things, in the area of ​​occupational health and safety, he must ensure safety and health in the workplace. The decision to purchase a defibrillator is up to him. Important factors for having a defibrillator in the company include: number and age structure of the employees, volume of customer and public traffic, physical activity and existing risks, e.g. from electrical work, location of the company and the expected arrival time of an ambulance or emergency doctor, external image of the company/image. In this context, reference is also made to the DGUV (German Social Accident Insurance), which recommends the provision of a defibrillator in certain industries and facilities based on general safety standards and a risk assessment. Irrespective of this, the DGUV stipulates that a certain percentage of trained first aiders must always be on site, so it is mandatory for companies to train employees to be company first aiders who are also trained in the use of defibrillators.

Yes, defibrillators are life-saving devices that can provide rapid assistance in the event of cardiac arrest. They are easy to use and can significantly increase the chances of survival for those affected, especially in the critical minutes before emergency services arrive. The chance of survival for those affected decreases by around 10% with every minute. The sooner the response is made, the more likely it is that those affected will survive without permanent damage. Even if there is no legal obligation, it is therefore sensible and the employer's responsibility to protect their employees by providing a defibrillator.

Although there is no legal requirement to have an AED in many countries, it is a responsible measure to promote health and safety in the workplace. Companies should weigh up the risks and benefits before deciding whether to purchase an AED.