The incident occurred around 17h on 9/7 in Nghe An, as Giang was on her way to pick up her child from school. Spotting a man walking who suddenly collapsed, the nurse immediately stopped her vehicle to check on him.

A quick assessment revealed the man was unconscious, his limbs rigid, indicating a critical condition. On the spot, she immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), performing continuous chest compressions to maintain circulation. Simultaneously, nearby residents assisted by contacting the 115 Emergency Center.

After more than 10 minutes of first aid, the man gradually regained a pulse and started breathing. Emergency services then arrived, took over, and transported him to Nghe An Friendship General Hospital for further specialized treatment.

With nearly 15 years of experience in the medical field, Giang stated that assisting those in emergency situations is a natural reflex and a professional responsibility.

According to a representative from Vinh City General Hospital, the decisive action by the female medical staff member from Department 3 of Specialties utilized the "golden hour," helping the man stay alive before emergency teams arrived. The hospital noted this as an example of healthcare workers' readiness to support the community, both inside and outside the hospital environment.

Nurse provides first aid to a man who collapsed in the street. *Photo: Hospital provided*

In emergency medicine, time is critical; every minute without chest compressions reduces a patient's chance of survival by 7% to 10%. If the brain is deprived of oxygen for more than 4 to 5 minutes, central nervous system damage becomes permanent and irreversible.

Therefore, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by bystanders at the scene acts as the only "lifeline" to sustain the victim's life before medical personnel arrive.

Cardiorespiratory arrest (cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest) is the sudden cessation of the heart's pumping activity, preventing blood circulation to other body parts. Without timely emergency intervention, this condition leads to rapid death. The primary goal of emergency care for circulatory arrest is to maintain breathing and heart function, preventing brain inactivity and complications that damage other organs.

When in a state of circulatory arrest, patients face the risk of organs lacking oxygenated blood. This is a cause of death or permanent brain damage within minutes. Early detection and prompt, correct emergency care can help patients avoid these dangers.

Thuy Quynh