Heart Attack and Stroke in the Workplace: Know What To Do

In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds (cdc.gov 2020). Therefore, the chances of that happening while at work is very high. If a co-worker is experiencing symptoms of a stroke or heart attack, would you be able to recognize the signs and know what to do? Follow the guidelines below and be stroke and heart attack response ready.

Heart Attack Warning Signs

Recognizing heart attack warning signs could save someone’s life. Be aware of the following symptoms among your co-workers.

• Chest discomfort (uncomfortable chest pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, burning or heaviness)Confusion or trouble understanding other people
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body (neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, back)
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Light-headedness

What should I do if someone is having a heart attack?

Take the appropriate steps to mitigate the effects of blood loss to the brain.

• Call 9-1-1 (or ask someone to call for you)
• Stop all activity, have the person sit or lay down
• If the sufferer takes nitroglycerin regularly, make sure they take their normal dosage
• With the advice of a 9-1-1 operator, chew and swallow two 80mg tables of Aspirin (do not take acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

Stroke Warning Signs

Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke could prevent serious damage. Be aware of the following signs among your co-workers.

• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side
• Confusion or trouble understanding other people
• Trouble speaking
• Difficulty seeing with one or both eyes
• Trouble walking or staying balanced or coordinated
• Dizziness
• Severe headache that comes on for no known reason

What should I do if someone is having a stroke?

If someone is experiencing symptoms of a stroke, think of the acronym F.A.S.T.

1. F – is for face. Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven or lopsided?
2. A – is for arm. Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
3. S – is for speech. Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
4. T – is for time. If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately.

Martin offers a variety of online and in-person training for the workplace. Contact your Martin Sales Rep for more information or call 800.828.8116.