Helping Latino Neighbors Get CPR in King County
In Washington, Latino people are less likely to get CPR or help from an AED (a device that helps restart the heart) when they experience cardiac arrest. This means they have a lower chance of surviving. The American Heart Association collaborated with El Centro de la Raza on a plan that helps more people get CPR when they need it.
The Problem
- Only 15 out of 100 people in Washington survive sudden cardiac arrest1.
- Of those 15, just 53 percent got CPR from someone nearby2.
- Research presented at American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 20233, found Latino people are:
- 26% less likely to get CPR at home
- 41% less likely to get CPR in public
- 27% less likely to get CPR at work
About El Centro de la Raza
El Centro de la Raza means “The Center for People of All Races” and welcomes everyone but focuses their work on Latino communities. It’s an organization based in King County that helps over 20,000 people each year with health, housing, food, childcare and more. Their main campus in North Beacon Hill is a neighborhood that doesn’t have easy access to healthy food or doctors, making their work critical.
The Plan
The American Heart Association and El Centro de la Raza created a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP). This written plan helps staff know what to do if someone has a cardiac arrest emergency. It includes:- Training more staff in CPR and AED use
- Making sure AEDs are easy to find and ready to use
- Practicing emergency drills so staff feels prepared
- Hosting Hands-Only CPR education events on-campus for the community
- Translating materials into Spanish, the primary language of their clients
What’s Next
The American Heart Association will continue to work with El Centro de la Raza by attending the first emergency drill and providing feedback. The Association will support El Centro as they develop response plans for satellite offices in Federal Way and early learning centers.
