Expert: Learn CPR, AED skills that can save lives

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – When cardiac arrest happens, bystanders are often the first to respond. WVU Medicine heart specialists are encouraging the public to learn CPR and AED skills, noting that nearly 70 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the home.  

David Schwartzman, M.D., director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, said many people hesitate to help because they worry they will not know what to do. Today’s CPR recommendations are simpler than many people realize, with hands-only chest compressions replacing rescue breathing for most adults. 

“Any CPR is better than no CPR,” Dr. Schwartzman said. “If you’ve never been trained and you’re faced with a situation that requires it, have at it. But the best approach is to take a class, practice the technique, and refresh those skills regularly.” 

Schwartzman said immediate CPR, calling 911, and using an automated external defibrillator, commonly known as an AED, as soon as one is available, can give someone experiencing cardiac arrest the best chance of survival. AEDs,  often found in schools, churches, airports, sports facilities, and other public places, are designed to guide users through each step. 

“The AED is the most effective intervention because it restores the heart’s electrical system,” Schwartzman said. “But CPR should never be delayed while waiting for one. You’re buying time until the heart can be restarted.” 

Schwartzman encourages everyone to complete a CPR certification course through organizations such as the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross and refresh that training each year. 

“Even if you’re the person who simply calls 911, your involvement may change the trajectory of someone’s life,” Schwartzman said. 

For more information, including a demonstration of hands-only CPR and AED use from Schwartzman, listen to the latest episode of Live Healthy West Virginia, “CPR & AED: Be Ready to Save a Life,” available on WVU Medicine’s YouTube channel and Spotify. 

To learn more about heart care and cardiovascular services at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, visit WVUMedicine.org/Heart.