Classic: chest pressure, tightness, or pain spreading to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back. Also: shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or a sense of doom.
Do not drive the person to the hospital. Call 911 — paramedics begin treatment before the ER. Minutes lost = heart muscle lost permanently.
Loosen tight clothing. Have them sit or lie in the most comfortable position — often sitting upright. Stay with them and keep the environment as calm as possible.
Lay on a firm flat surface. Place the heel of your hand on the centre of the chest. Stack hands. Push down at least 2 inches (5cm), 100 to 120 times per minute. Keep going.
AEDs are in most public buildings, gyms, schools, airports, and malls. Turn it on — it provides clear voice instructions. You will not accidentally harm someone by using it.
Most allergic reactions are manageable and pass. Knowing these signs means you'll always know exactly what to do next.
Watching a seizure is frightening. But your job right now is simply to keep the person safe — not to stop it. You can do this.
You caught this — that's already the most important thing. Poison Control is available 24 hours and has guided thousands of families through exactly this.
Guidance only — in any emergency, call 911.