Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month: Know the Signs. Take Action. Save Lives.

Imagine a coworker suddenly collapsing at work. Would you know what to do? Would you know where to find the nearest AED?

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, a reminder that cardiac emergencies can happen anywhere, often without warning.

The good news? You don't have to be a medical professional to make a difference.

Knowing what to do in the first few minutes could help save someone's life.

What is cardiac arrest?

According to the American Heart Association, more than 350,000 adults in the United States experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year. Only about 1 in 10 survive.

But there's something important to remember:

Immediate CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival.

That's why knowing how to recognize cardiac arrest and respond quickly matters, whether you're at home, in an office, at school, or in a healthcare facility.

What Should You Do If Someone Collapses?

If someone is unresponsive and isn't breathing normally, or is only gasping, treat it as a cardiac emergency.

Here's what to do:

1. Call 911. Make sure the scene is safe. Ask someone to contact emergency services and bring the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).
   
   

2. Start CPR. For a teen or adult, push hard and fast in the center of the chest at 100–120 compressions per minute. Follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions.

Use an AED. As soon as it's available, turn it on and follow its voice prompts. The device will analyze the heart rhythm and determine whether a shock is needed. Continue CPR as instructed until emergency responders take over or the person shows signs of life.

Call 911. Start CPR. Use an AED. Three actions that can help save a life.

Can Anyone Use an AED?

Yes. AEDs are designed for use by the general public, even without medical training.

An AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and provides step-by-step instructions. It will only advise or deliver a shock when appropriate.

While anyone can use one, CPR and AED training can help people feel more prepared to respond during an emergency.

Having an AED Is One Thing. Keeping It Ready Is Another.

For schools, offices, healthcare facilities, gyms, and other public spaces, having an AED available is an important part of emergency preparedness.

But simply installing one isn't enough.

An AED is only useful in an emergency if it's accessible and ready to operate.

Take a few minutes this month to review your AED readiness:

• Check accessibility. Make sure the AED is easy to locate and isn't blocked.

• Inspect the device. Check the readiness indicator, battery status, and expiration dates of electrode pads.

• Review your response plan. Make sure staff know where the AED is and how to access it.

• Schedule regular checks. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions and replace expired components with compatible ones.

Make Readiness Part of Your Routine

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month isn't just about learning the facts. It's an opportunity to turn awareness into action.

Review your emergency response plan, encourage CPR and AED training, and check that your equipment is ready when needed.

At American Hospital Supply, we offer AEDs and accessories, AED Value Packages, and AED Refresh Packs, to support your organization's emergency preparedness.

Because when every second matters, being prepared makes a difference.