INDIA Lawyer waiting in the courthouse hallway for his trial suddenly collapsed. A group of people immediately gathered around him and tried to provide first aid, but all efforts were in vain. The man died. It was later confirmed that he had suffered a heart attack.
The incident reminds us how short and fragile life really is. It can end suddenly, at the very moment we least expect it. That’s why it’s unwise to stress over trivial matters, maintain broken family ties, or keep postponing visits to loved ones. We should value the present and the gift of life every day.
It also highlights the importance of staying in good physical condition and going for preventive medical checkups. Many heart attacks and strokes can be prevented with proper care.
At the same time, this case is a real-life example of how a heart attack looks and why it’s crucial to know the correct steps to provide first aid. Only then can you make the difference between life and death. In this case, people around him clearly failed. Let’s break down what should have been done:
- The so-called bystander effect occurred. A large group gathered, but nobody really knew what to do, each expecting the other to act. In the end, nothing happened. This can be prevented if you take charge and give direct instructions: e.g., “Hey you! Help me lay him on the floor,” or “You! Call emergency services now.”
- Besides calling emergency services right away, if a heart attack leads to unconsciousness, chest compressions must begin immediately. If the heart stops, oxygen flow to the body ceases, and brain cells start to die within minutes. CPR helps the victim survive until paramedics arrive. It’s best done on a hard surface, and don’t be afraid to use force. Broken ribs are common and acceptable in proper CPR.
- If the patient is conscious, ask whether they have prescribed nitroglycerin and help them take it. Aspirin is also recommended to reduce blood clotting.
- In many cities around the world, AED defibrillators are available in busy public spaces. These devices are fully automated with step-by-step instructions. They monitor vital signs and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restart the heart.
These points serve only for general awareness. The best thing you can do is take a first aid course or spend a few minutes of your life watching a YouTube video on how to do it. You never know when it will come in handy and you might save someone’s life.
