Heather Halstead would not be alive if not for the heroic efforts of individuals who saved her life.
She suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while delivering bread at Roseabelle’s. Luckily, there were 2 veteran hospital nurses attending a meeting at the restaurant.
The nurses promptly performed CPR. This allowed oxygen to be supplied to the brain to prevent permanent damage. Upon the arrival of the paramedics who were stationed across the street, they administered a shock to restore the heart into its normal rhythm.
Perfect timing
According to Halstead, she was able to celebrate her 50th birthday and her 25th wedding anniversary with the help of the nurses and the EMS.
The 2 nurses – Cottam’s Laurie Callander and Woodstock resident Joanne Shuttleworth noticed Halstead delivering bread and stopped to chat with some people at a nearby table. It was then she collapsed.
The nurses rushed over, instructed bystanders to call 911, and started the assessment. Initially, there was a pulse detected but her condition rapidly worsened. In just a short while, there was no heart rate and she was under respiratory distress. It was then that they had to perform CPR.
Both were becoming increasingly worried as her skin color changed. Once the paramedics arrived, the nurses stepped aside so the emergency team can utilize a defibrillator.
Halstead was diagnosed with a rare and dangerous heart rhythm disorder known as idiopathic ventricular fibrillation.
Importance of first aid training
Prompt delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save a life. If you want to be prepared during emergencies, it is recommended to enroll in a first aid course today.
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Learn how to be ready for emergencies by enrolling in our course on first aid and CPR. Our courses maintain social distancing measures with reduced class sizes to maintain the minimum 2 meters apart along with the mandatory use of face masks and regular temperature checks. The venue of the courses undergo regular, enhanced cleaning and disinfection routines.Â
For more information, check out these sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardiopulmonary_resuscitation