Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States, with 600,000 people dying annually of heart disease. More than five million Americans visit hospitals each year with chest pain.
SCPC's goal is to significantly reduce the mortality rate of these patients by teaching the public to recognize and react to the early symptoms of a possible heart attack, reduce the time that it takes to receive treatment, and increase the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment.
Sharon Regional Medical Center demonstrates expertise in the following areas:
- Integrating the emergency department with the local emergency medical responders
- Assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients quickly
- Continually seeking to improve processes and procedures
- Ensuring the competence and training of Accredited Chest Pain Center personnel
- Supporting community outreach programs that educate the public to promptly seek medical care if they display symptoms of a possible heart attack
*The Accreditation is a 3-year award.
During a heart attack, minutes MATTER!
Know the symptoms. Get help fast. Time is muscle.
Know the Early Symptoms:
- Feeling of fullness in the chest
- Nausea
- Pain in one or both arms
- Jaw pain
- Severe fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Upper back pain
- Chest pressure, pain, squeezing or discomfort
- Anxiety
What to Do if You Suspect a Heart Attack:
- Remain Calm. When you’re calm everyone around you will remain calm. If you’re the patient, staying calm helps decrease your heart rate and increases oxygen flow to the heart.
- CALL 911. No matter how close you are to the hospital, call 911! If the heart stops during a car ride, there is nothing you can do.
- Take ASPIRIN. Chew and swallow 1 full strength (324 mg) or 4 baby aspirin (81 mg each).
- If possible – get an AED. If a patient’s heart stops beating an AED can restore a regular rhythm.
Hands-Only CPR Can Save Lives.
Most people who experience cardiac arrest at home, work or in a public location die because they don't receive immediate CPR from someone on the scene. As a bystander, don't be afraid. Your actions can only help. When calling 911, you will be asked for your location. Be specific, especially if you’re calling from a mobile phone as that is not associated with a fixed address. Answering the dispatcher’s questions will not delay the arrival of help.
Hands ONLY CPR
3 Steps to Save a Life
1. Call Out to the Individual | Check for Responsiveness
- Tap and shout – Are you ok?
- Direct Someone to call 911 and get an AED if the person is not responding, snoring, or not breathing.
- Position the person with their back on the floor. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest between the nipple line and the other hand on top of the first.
2. Compress | Push Hard and Fast
- Push at least two inches and 100 times per minute. Allow the chest to recoil between pushes by lifting your hands.
3. Clear | If an AED is Available
- Turn it on and follow the prompts. Continue until EMS arrives.
Learn more about Hands ONLY CPR at the American Heart Association.
Stories of the Heart - Patient Testimonials
Resources
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