CPR and AED in Quebec: Respond to Cardiac Arrest

Recognize

If someone collapses, is unresponsive and is not breathing normally or only gasps, assume cardiac arrest. Call for help and do not spend long searching for a pulse.

Call and delegate

Call 911 on speaker. Send someone for an AED and another to guide responders. If alone, follow dispatcher directions immediately.

Compressions

Put the person on a firm surface, hands at the centre of the chest, and push hard and fast while allowing full recoil as directed.

Breaths

If trained and willing, combine breaths and compressions according to training. Otherwise hands-only CPR for a suddenly collapsed adult is better than inaction.

AED

Turn it on, expose and dry the chest, attach pads as shown and follow voice prompts. Nobody touches the person during analysis or shock.

Special cases

Children, drowning, choking, trauma and overdose may require different methods. Follow 911 guidance and use pediatric pads when available and indicated.

Continue

Resume compressions immediately after a shock or no-shock message until normal breathing, responders, exhaustion or danger.

Prepare

Take recognized training, locate AEDs and report empty cabinets or expired equipment.

Safety

Move away from traffic, water, fire or electricity before helping. Do not use an AED in standing water and do not delay CPR to move the person unnecessarily.

After the response

Tell paramedics the approximate times of collapse, the start of compressions and each AED analysis or shock. Share known medication or context. Resuscitation can be distressing; seek a debrief or support and promptly replace used AED supplies.

Official government resource (French)

Version française →