Don't fear blame, save a life: Doctor urges CPR in emergencies

SHAH ALAM - While it's natural to worry about being blamed for administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) without proper training, it's crucial to prioritise the victim's life over others' opinions.

Following the recent news of 17-year-old Chinese badminton player Zhang Zhijie collapsing and passing away mid-game, Medical doctor and social media influencer Dr S. Malar Santhi, stressed the importance of immediate action in such situations.

Dr Malar posted a four-minute video on Instagram explaining the possible causes of such sudden deaths.

"Can you see Zhang Zhijie flailing? At that moment, it is very likely his heart was in fibrillation, specifically Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) or Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (Pulseless VT).

"The best treatment for this condition is shock delivery," she said.

“However, if no shock device is available, immediate CPR is crucial.

"Without prompt treatment, the heart can progress to Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) or Asystole, where there is no pulse at all.

"In the video, after Zhang flails, his body goes rigid, indicating he has entered the Asystole phase.

"This could be due to factors like Hypokalemia or Hyperkalemia.

"During intense activities like badminton, Hypokalemia is likely due to excessive sweating.

"Other sudden collapse causes include hypothermia, hypoglycemia, and electrolyte imbalance,” she said.

Dr Malar emphasised that regardless of the cause, a correct, precise, and rapid response is essential.

“First, check for a response. If the victim is unresponsive, shout for help and request an AED.

"Start CPR immediately without waiting for others. Whether you have learned CPR or not, set aside your fears and take action.

"Place your palms on the centre of the victim’s chest and begin compressions, using your shoulders to apply pressure.

"Do not worry about causing pain or breaking ribs; focus solely on compressions to restart the heart.

"After two to three minutes, you may get tired, so ensure others are ready to take over until professional help arrives. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is unnecessary,” she added.

Dr Malar also highlighted that one is legally protected when providing emergency aid.

“So do not fear legal repercussions. Your primary concern should be fulfilling your responsibility.

"The victim’s fate is predetermined, but your role is to act, not to stand by idly.

"Your responsibility is to act and not be paralysed by fear or concern for what others think,” she said.

An Instagram user, @kaknis_kbda88, commented in the video: “Worried that when we try to give CPR to the victim, then there would be others blaming us for helping without proper knowledge."

"It is typical, we can not shut people's mouths.” Dr Malar replied, emphasising that one should ignore what people around might say and only fear the Creator's questions later.

Following the incident, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) announced a "thorough review" after Zhang collapsed during a match at the Asia Junior Championships in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Zhang suffered a cardiac arrest and died after being rushed to the hospital.

However, viral footage showed a delayed medical response, with help arriving 40 seconds after his collapse.

The BWF, in consultation with Badminton Asia and Indonesia's badminton association (PBSI), will review the incident and assess if guidelines need changes.

Badminton legend Lee Chong Wei called for better scheduling and more alert medical teams, underlining the need for immediate action following the tragedy.

Chinese state media also questioned the adequacy of the emergency response.