If someone has a cardiac arrest or heart attack, there are only a few minutes to act before it's too late. It's vital to know what to do beforehand. This is a brief guide to the help that can be given.

Read more: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/accidents_firstaid/index.shtml#ixzz2Rmd5pPps 
Follow us: @NetDoctor on Twitter | NetDoctorUK on Facebook

Washing your hands well is one of the most important protections you have.  Always use soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty and after taking off glove after providing First Aid.

Access the scene to make sure it safe for you to proceed.  You can't help if you get hurt.  Only move the ill or injured person if they are in danger.  Yell for help.  Look for people who can help you.  Look to see who is injured and how many people are hurt.  Where are you?  Be specific.  The emergency

Some people may be required to perform first aid while working like police officers, park rangers firefighters, flight attendants, life-guards, and park rangers may have a duty to give first aid when they are working.  Providing first aid may be a part of your job description.  If so, you must help while you are working.  However, when off-duty, you can choose whether or not to provide first aid.

First Aid is the immediate care that you give someone with an illness or injury before trained help arrives and takes over.  Trained help could be an EMS responder, nurse or doctor.