If the caregiver suspects that a resident is having a heart attack, she should

• A. Remove all clothing
• B. Begin a full medical exam
• C. Loosen the clothing around the resident's neck
• D. Give water to drink

Answer: (C)

Knowing how to respond when someone may be having a heart attack.

Loosening tight clothing around the neck and chest is the best first step because it frees up breathing and reduces any additional pressure on the chest. This helps the person breathe more easily and can relieve some discomfort while you arrange urgent medical care.

Other options aren’t appropriate right away. Removing all clothing isn’t necessary and can be invasive, a full medical exam is beyond what a caregiver should do in an emergency, and giving water isn’t required and could cause choking or vomiting if the person feels nauseated.

Next, call emergency services, stay with the person, monitor their breathing, and be ready to help with CPR or an AED if trained and needed. If they are able to sit up comfortably, keep them in a semi-reclined position to aid breathing.