First Aid In The Case Of Cardiac Arrest, Basic Life Assistance Becomes A Determinant For A Person's Life And Death

JAKARTA - Have you ever seen people suddenly fall unconscious in public places? The first reaction usually panics. But, did you know that if there was a quick action or first aid it could determine someone's life?

That's the importance we need to understand Basic Life Assistance (BHD). According to dr. Guidedo Ilyasa Purba from Eka Hospital BSD, BHD basically makes us "heart and lungs" while for cardiac arrest victims.

A number of methods are quite simple, namely by doing chest compression and (if able) giving artificial breath.

"Every minute that is missed without help, the chances of survivors falling 10%. So the speed in BHD's actions is quite important," explained dr. Guiddo during a visit to the VOI Media office in Jakarta, Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

There are several things that can be done to provide assistance to collapsed people, or in cardiac arrest cases. Here's the full presentation, as stated by doctor Guidedo.

Check the surrounding conditions first. Make sure it's safe for yourself, the victim, and others.

Position the victim on a flat and hard base. So that chest compression can be effective.

Test the victim's response. You can do this by patting your shoulder or pinching, if there is no further reaction to the next step.

The pulse and breath are a maximum of 10 seconds. Touch the neck of the side while feeling the breath.

Call for emergency assistance. If there is, ask for help to take the AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

Start chest compression

Basically, Basic Life Assistance (BHD) involves chest compression measures, which mimic the function of the heart in pumping blood throughout the body. Here's how.

Recovery position

Recovery position or position for patient recovery can be done if the victim starts breathing, tilts his body to the left to prevent blockage of the airway or vomiting.

Every minute is a golden period, which means that as soon as possible it is given help, the chances of saving victims will be higher.

"Human brain can only last a few minutes without blood and oxygen. That's why quick action in the early minutes is very crucial. If through golden period, the risk of brain damage is getting bigger even though the victim has been saved," said dr. Guiddo.