Heart Attack Position
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course
or enter your email below to watch one free video.
Unlock This Video Now for FREE
This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.
Recognizing and Responding to Heart Attacks
1. Identifying a Potential Heart Attack
Know the signs and act promptly:
- If you suspect someone is experiencing a heart attack, call the emergency services immediately.
- In the UK, heart attacks are alarmingly common, with someone being admitted to the hospital approximately every five minutes, according to the British Heart Foundation.
- Never ignore chest pain; treat it seriously and take prompt action.
2. Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Familiarize yourself with common symptoms:
- Heart attack symptoms may include:
- Persistent chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
- Pain radiating to the arms, back, neck, and stomach
- Unexplained shortness of breath
3. Providing Initial Aid
Take immediate action when someone shows signs of a heart attack:
- Seat them down and ensure their back is supported against a stable surface, such as a fence, wall, tree, or goalpost.
- Bring their knees up towards their chest and lean them forward slightly.
- This position, known as the heart attack position or 'W' position, helps reduce pressure on the heart by opening up the thoracic cavity.
- Do not lay the person down and raise their legs, as this can strain the heart further.
- If you have an aspirin in an Aspod, consider offering it, but do not insist if they decline.
- While in the 'W' position, maintain communication and urgently contact emergency services.
Learning Outcomes:
- IPOSi Unit four LO3.1, 3.2 & 3.3