Final answer:
First, call 911 for emergency assistance when caring for a heart attack victim. If the victim is unconscious, begin CPR immediately and use an AED if trained and available. Assist conscious victims with aspirin and prescribed medications, and continue care until professional help arrives.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you are providing care for a victim having a heart attack, the first thing you should do is call 911 or your local emergency number. After securing professional medical help, you can then offer assistance while waiting for emergency responders.
If the victim is unconscious and not breathing, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim's chest (between the nipples), put your other hand on top, and push down hard and fast, with compressions at a depth of at least 5 cm and a rate of 100 compressions per minute. This action helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain.
Administering immediate treatments is crucial. If you are trained and it's available, use an automated external defibrillator (AED) as soon as possible to correct potential arrhythmias. In case of conscious victims, if available and not contraindicated, you may assist them to take aspirin, which helps in breaking up clots, and nitroglycerine if previously prescribed.
Remember that while you can offer initial care, professional medical treatment is essential for heart attack victims. Emergency responders can provide supplemental oxygen, medications, and advanced life support which may increase the chance of survival and recovery.