This might seem like an unusual topic for a physician’s blog, but it shouldn’t be. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, and it’s likely that someone you care about will be affected. A little preparation can make a significant difference in how you respond, and ultimately, in the outcome.

Here are a few simple steps to be prepared:  simple steps to help you be prepared:

Have Aspirin on Hand

Aspirin, an antiplatelet medication (aka, a blood thinner), can potentially save a life during a heart attack. If someone is having a heart attack, have them chew 325 mg of aspirin (or four baby aspirin, 81 mg each). This can help reduce heart damage by getting the medication into the bloodstream quickly. I keep aspirin at home, in my car, and at work.

Early Electricity in Cardiac Arrest: Where is the AED?

Early electricity—meaning a shock from an automated external defibrillator (AED)—is the to survival during cardiac arrest. Do you know where the AED is at your workplace? Your gym? Time matters, so knowing the location of this life-saving device can make a difference. In an emergency, have one person call 911, one retrieve the AED, and another tend to the patient.

CPR

When was the last time you took a CPR course?  CPR can buy valuable time until emergency medical services arrive. Consider getting recertified so you’re ready if the need arises.

Call 911

Don’t drive the person to the hospital yourself—call 911 and wait for the paramedics. Advanced Cardiac Life Support-trained professionals are equipped to handle heart attacks and transport patients safely.

Stay Calm and Act

Take a deep breath. You know what to do: chew aspirin, find the AED, start CPR, and call 911. You’ve got this.

At Personalized Medicine and Health Coaching, we think about these things so you can be ready. The same thought process applies to patients at high risk of stroke (after appropriate medical therapy)– what is the plan? Where is the nearest stroke center? What steps can I take to minimize risk and improve outcomes? This is how you and your doctor should be thinking.