Hands-only CPR can save a life until the ambulance arrives

If a person collapses, is not responding, and is not breathing normally, it's time to go to work -- after 911 is called.

There's something all able-bodied adults should know how to do if they are with someone who suddenly has a heart attack.

Time is of the essence, so something needs to be done right away. That something is hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR. KOAT health expert Abinash Achrekar M.D., best known as Dr. Ash, says it's easy to learn.

"When a person goes into cardiac arrest, their heart stops pumping blood, so oxygen cannot reach the brain or other organs," Dr. Ash said. "Brain damage can happen within minutes. The good news is that something simple can help keep blood moving until help arrives."

If a person suddenly collapses, is not responding, and is not breathing normally, it's time to go into action -- after 911 is called, Dr. Ash said.

"Emergency teams can guide you and bring the right equipment," Dr. Ash said, but you can't wait until they arrive.

"Place the person on their back on a firm surface, kneel beside them, and place your hands on their chest," Dr. Ash said. "You want to push straight down about two inches deep and keep a steady rhythm of 100-120 pushes each minute."

Dr. Ash recommends keeping a song with a steady beat in your head while pushing.