Signs Of A Cardiac Emergency And What To Do First

By Author: Christopher Bayer
Total Articles: 15
Comment this article

When a cardiac emergency strikes, every second counts. Would you know what to do if someone near you suddenly collapsed, gasping or not breathing at all? Knowing how to recognize the signs and respond quickly can mean the difference between life and death. That's why taking a Certified Online CPR Class is a necessary step toward being prepared.

Recognizing the Signs of a Cardiac Emergency

Sudden cardiac arrest often comes without warning, but there are key symptoms that can alert you to immediate danger:

Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness
No normal breathing or gasping for air
No pulse
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Fatigue or fainting
Pain spreading to arms, neck, jaw, or back

These symptoms can appear alone or in combination. If someone shows signs of a cardiac emergency, act fast. Don’t wait to see if the situation improves.

What to Do First

Check Responsiveness
Tap the person and shout. If there is no response, check their breathing. If they aren’t breathing normally, assume it's cardiac ...
... arrest.
Call Emergency Services
Dial 911 immediately. If possible, ask a bystander to call while you begin CPR.
Begin Chest Compressions
Push hard and fast in the center of the chest—at least 100 compressions per minute. Let the chest rise fully between pushes. If trained, provide rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.
Use an AED if Available
If there’s an automated external defibrillator (AED) nearby, turn it on and follow the voice prompts. These devices guide you step-by-step.
Continue Until Help Arrives
Never stop CPR unless the person starts breathing, another trained responder takes over, or emergency personnel arrive.

Why CPR Certification Online Makes Sense

Many people hesitate to act during emergencies because they aren’t sure what to do. That uncertainty disappears with training. A CPR Certification Online course teaches you how to handle real-world emergencies through interactive lessons, videos, and step-by-step guidance.

Online CPR Classes from American Safety Training Institute (ASTI) are designed for flexibility and convenience. You can complete the course at your own pace, from any device, and gain practical skills that meet ECC and OSHA standards. Upon completion, you’ll receive your certification card immediately—valid for two years.

Learn to Save Lives

What if someone you cared about collapsed right in front of you? Would you hesitate or take action? Knowing CPR is a responsibility everyone can carry.

Enroll in an Online CPR Class today with American Safety Training Institute and build the confidence to respond when it matters most.

Need certification now? Visit www.americansti.org and start your CPR training today.