Skills for life – Woman performs CPR, saves player who collapsed during badminton match

What would you do if you saw someone collapsed during a badminton match? A woman from Malacca has proved that the knowledge she learned can save lives in an emergency.

Kristil Tan Ai Teng, 55, said the incident happened during veteran men’s doubles quarter-finals at about 9pm on Sunday involving a 55-year-old player who represented the Kota Baru Institute of Teacher Education (IPG).

Tan, who was on duty as the technical director of the badminton event in conjunction with the Inter-Staff Games Carnival of the Malaysian IPG heard cries for help at the side of the court.

“I ran towards the man and saw him collapse while sitting against a nearby wall after asking for permission to take a break from the game.

“I sensed that the man had a heart attack so I immediately performed CPR on him and was helped by a student who was also a volunteer on duty to fetch the automated external defibrillator (AED) from my car,” she said when contacted by Bernama.

“I feel that the public needs to learn about first aid to help anyone who is faced with the same situation,” she said, adding that the first aid method is also important to restore blood flow and sufficient oxygen levels to the lungs, brain and other vital organs and CPR is a basic treatment method that can save lives.

“I also hope that more people will learn the basic techniques of CPR and AED and attend the courses to increase their knowledge in saving the lives of others,” she added.

What is an AED machine?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) also known as mesin AED, is a machine that is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). By sending an electric shock to the heart of a person in SCA, the AED restores a normal heart rhythm.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)

Is an electrical disturbance of the heart rhythm that causes the heart to stop beating. When this happens, your blood stops flowing to the brain and other important organs of the body. SCA can happen in people who have no known heart disease. It can be life-threatening and usually causes death if it is not treated within minutes.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the initial use of an AED machine increases the likelihood of survival in SCA. Therefore, it is important for everyone to be equipped with the lifesaving skill of First Aid, CPR & AED. Besides, it is recommended to have AED machine installed in public facilities.

How does an AED work?

A built-in computer checks a victim’s heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes. The computer calculates whether defibrillation is needed. If it is, a recorded voice prompts the rescuer to press the shock button on the AED. This shock momentarily stuns the heart and stops all activity. It gives the heart the chance to resume beating effectively. Audible prompts guide the user through the process. AEDs advise a shock only for ventricular fibrillation or another life-threatening condition called pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

Who can use an AED?

AEDs are designed to be used by non-medical personnel. That includes you! Anyone can use (and should use) an AED machine in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. CPR along with AED machine can dramatically increase survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest.

Where can I buy an AED?

Find the right AED defibrillator for your needs here.

Where can you learn more about AED?

Although formal training in the use of an AED is not required, getting certified in CPR & AED is recommended to help you develop your skills and level of confidence. CERT Academy offers CPR & AED training available for your need. Sign up for a training .