What to Do When a Coworker Collapses: Steps for CPR and First Aid

It's a common scenario in offices and workplaces: witnessing a coworker collapse. Swift and effective action can save lives. This guide covers the crucial next steps after ensuring safety and calling emergency services.

Ensuring Safety and Initial Assessment

First, prioritize your and your coworker's safety. Quickly assess the scene for any hazards and remove them if possible. Then, check the person for responsiveness and breathing. If the person is unresponsive and breathing, place them in the recovery position. If they are not breathing, initiate CPR immediately. Calling 911 is fundamental; ensure someone else is doing this to save valuable time.

Positioning the Unresponsive Person

If the person is unresponsive but breathing, gently roll them onto their side in the recovery position. This helps prevent choking and aspiration. Remember, the airway must remain open and clear.

Starting CPR: Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths

CPR consists of two primary components: chest compressions and rescue breaths. Begin by placing the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest, and the other hand on top. Interlock your fingers and keep your arms straight. Push down hard and fast—about 100 to 120 compressions per minute—to a depth of about 2 inches. If you are trained and willing, after every 30 compressions, provide 2 rescue breaths. Tilt the person's head back slightly to open the airway, pinch the nose shut, and blow into the mouth for about one second, watching for the chest to rise. Repeat the second breath before continuing with compressions.

Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

Even if you are not experienced, it is crucial to use any available AED. Retrieve it as soon as possible, turn it on, and follow the voice instructions. Attach the pads to the person's bare chest and allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm. If necessary, the AED will deliver a shock to the heart. Continue performing CPR until the AED instructs you to stop.

Continuing Until Help Arrives

After providing CPR and using the AED, keep going until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive or the person begins to show signs of life such as breathing or moving.

Providing Information to EMS

When EMS arrives, quickly provide them with information about the situation. Mention how long the person has been unresponsive and any relevant medical history you know. This information can be crucial for the medical team.

Some Final Considerations

While offering aid is commendable, be aware that you are not obligated to do so. Once you decide to help, however, you take on legal responsibility. If you make mistakes or abandon the person, you may face potential legal consequences. Therefore, make sure you are capable and willing to provide ongoing help. Remember, your actions can significantly impact the outcome. In some cases, like the elderly man you mentioned, quick and proper intervention can mean the difference between life and death.

Staying calm and focused is crucial during such a critical moment. Every second counts, and your composed actions can make a world of difference.