Chest Compressions Can Save a Diver's Life

A diver's heart can stop from running out of air underwater or, more likely, stress, such as the stress of climbing the boat ladder fully geared up, when no longer as fit as they should be. To save a life, those nearby need to know how to act immediately. If blood stops flowing, irreversible brain damage can occur within three minutes, and by five minutes, death is imminent.

Recognizing a person is in cardiac arrest and performing effective chest compressions are both critical skills for any would-be rescuer, and one could do well to bone up on what is needed.

Chest compressions keep oxygenated blood flowing until trained medical help arrives. If one is hesitant or untrained in mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, chest compressions alone can keep the victim alive until more expert help takes over. It's the first-line response.

Effective chest compressions must be at least two inches deep with each downstroke and delivered twice a second. You can find out more here: acls.net/chest-compressions