Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but timely intervention can save lives. Would you know what to do if someone nearby had a heart attack?
Our First Aid courses in South Perth teach you the skills to act confidently in emergencies. Learn more about heart attacks, their causes, and how First Aid training can empower you to make a difference.
Book your HLTAID011 Provide First Aid & CPR course today and be prepared to save a life.
It’s so important to recognise the early signs of a heart attack because the sooner you take action, the less irreversible damage it will cause to the heart. Read on to learn more about what causes heart attacks and how to prevent and treat them.
Why do Heart Attacks Happen?
Heart attacks occur when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked or severely reduced, resulting in damage to the heart. Common causes of this include:
The Coronary Artery
Blood flow is supplied by the coronary artery, and it can get blocked by events such as:
- Plaque buildup
- Spasms triggered by stress and substance use
- Clots triggered by high blood pressure.
Heart Disease
Another risk factor is heart disease (specifically coronary artery disease, or CAD) as this can:
- Reduce blood flow to the heart
- Increase blood clots
- Cause heart muscle damage.
Preventing Heart Attacks
When we take care of ourselves and make healthy choices, we are able to reduce risk of heart attack and live happier, healthier lives.
Two simple actions you can make today include healthier food choices and reducing use of substances (e.g. alcohol, smoking and select drug use), as well as intake of processed foods.
Reducing Plaque Buildup
Plaque is caused by fat, cholesterol and other substances, which is why it’s important to make healthy eating choices.
Try these healthy swaps to reduce plaque buildup:
- Processed meats → swap these for lean meats, legumes, fish or egg whites.
- Fried foods → switch out French fries and fried chicken for roasted vegetables and grilled foods.
- Sugary beverages → switch out sodas and sweetened drinks for water and herbal teas.
- Pastries and cakes → switch these sweet treats out for fruit-based desserts, dark chocolate and Greek yogurt.
- Full-fat dairy products → switch these out for nut butters, as well as low-fat milks and cheeses.
Reducing Spasm Risk
In some circumstances, a spasm of the coronary artery can temporarily reduce or block blood flow to the heart.
Spasms are caused by stress and emotional distress, smoking, or select drug use, which is why we recommend practising self-care and eliminating use of substances.
How First Aid training Can Save Lives During a Heart Attack
If a heart attack occurs and blood flow isn’t restored quickly, this can lead to the death of heart muscle and tissue, causing irreversible damage.
This is why it’s vital to have first aid and CPR training, as this can help you:
- Recognise early signs of a heart attack
- Administering medications that can reduce clot sizes
- Perform CPR, and even use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Enrolling in a CPR class and gaining a certification can equip you with these valuable and life-saving skills. Learn more about CPR training here.
At the Australian Institute of Training Solutions, we enable people to become a part of the solution. Our knowledgeable professionals will help guide and equip you with the right tools and skills that will help you step up in an emergency.
FAQ
What is HLTAID011 Provide First Aid & CPR?
In HLTAID011 Provide First Aid & CPR, you will develop the skills and knowledge required to provide first aid, including CPR, to a casualty (in line with best practice as per the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and ANZCOR guidelines).
This course will enable you to provide potentially lifesaving first aid in a range of situations, including community and workplace settings.
Where is the First Aid training located?
We are conveniently located at the Xanadu Group building, 4 Gwenyfred Road, South Perth WA, 6151. There is ample parking available on premises.
If you are traveling by public transport, the 910 bus route goes right past our location with stops after Way St and Berwick St.
How long does the course take?
In-person
Face-to-Face time for HLTAID011 Provide First Aid & CPR is 7.5hrs – with a ½ hour break for lunch.
We have 3 – 4 courses running per week, however we may add more courses to meet demand. We also offer group bookings and corporate discounts for larger groups. For information on this please email [email protected]
Online
The online quiz component is structured to take approx. 2 hours to complete in your own time. The submission deadline for completing the online quiz component for HLTAID011 Provide First Aid and CPR is 1 month from enrolment, but it is better to complete it prior to attending the in-person training, so that you already have a basic understanding of the course materials.
How do I book my First Aid & CPR training?
Head to www.aits.com.au to book in your First Aid & CPR training today.
