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Heart attack is an emergency condition where there is a cessation of blood flow that carries oxygen to the heart due to a blockage. This condition can cause sudden breathlessness. No one knows for sure when and where a heart attack will occur. Without prompt assistance, there is a high risk of a fatal outcome. Therefore, it is important for us to know how to properly help heart failure patients, especially for those of us who have relatives or family members with a history of heart disease.
Lecturer of Nursing S1 IIK Bhakti Wiyata, Winanda Rizki B.S, M.Kep., Ns, explains that heart failure can be caused by coronary heart disease. It can also result from lung diseases such as TB. In addition, patients with diabetes mellitus are also at risk of experiencing a heart attack.
To prevent a fatal outcome, those around the patient can provide first aid to heart failure patients. Winanda provides assistance steps for heart failure patients using the DRSCAB approach. What is DRSCAB? Here's the explanation:
1. D (Danger)
"Safe for the rescuer, safe for the patient. Also safe for the surrounding environment," Winanda emphasizes. It's important for you to observe the patient's surroundings who is experiencing heart failure. If it happens in a busy place or street, it's advisable to move the patient to a safe location.
2. R (Response)
After ensuring the patient's surroundings are safe, you can proceed with first aid by checking the victim's response. To do this, gently tap the patient's shoulder. If the patient doesn't respond to the first attempt, you can use a pain response by pinching the patient's fingertip.
3. S (Shout For Help)
In addition to providing initial aid, it's important for you to call for medical assistance. One way is to call the emergency ambulance (119). Clearly state that you are with someone experiencing a heart attack. This ensures the patient receives appropriate help.
4. C (Circulation)
While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, the rescuer can perform chest compressions and ventilation. "We can perform chest compressions," says Winanda. The rescuer places the heel of one hand on the center of the patient's chest. Meanwhile, the other hand is placed on top of the first hand with fingers interlocked. Compressions are repeated 30 times, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, along with 2 ventilations. This is repeated for 5 cycles.
Additionally, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be used, which serves as a heart shock device. While using the AED, the rescuer continues chest compressions and ventilation until a pulse is detected.
1. A (Airway)
This is done by securing the patient's airway. If any obstructions are found, the rescuer must remove them immediately. The use of oropharyngeal airways or endotracheal tubes can also assist in securing the patient's airway.
2. B (Breathing)
This involves providing breathing assistance. The rescuer can provide rescue breathing every 6 seconds. "We exhale air into the victim's mouth, counting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, then exhale again until the patient responds spontaneously," Winanda explains. However, mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration is currently controversial. Therefore, the rescuer can also provide ventilation using a bag-valve-mask (BVM).
After performing the DRSCAB assistance steps above, you can help the patient recover. Position the patient's body on its side. This can prevent aspiration while waiting for the ambulance to arrive. For more detailed information, you can check the IIK Bhakti Wiyata YouTube channel.
