Call, Push, Shock
What is Call, Push, Shock?
Call, Push, Shock, is a simple way to remember what to do if someone is in cardiac arrest.
Someone in cardiac arrest can’t be woken up, can’t breathe normally or at all, and can’t cry for help. They need someone nearby to step in and help.
Every second matters. The faster you act, the better their chance of survival.
Call
Call Triple Zero (000) straight away. The call-taker will tell you what to do and remain on the phone with you.
Push
Push hard and fast in the middle of the chest, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. This helps keep blood moving through the body.
Shock
Shock the heart by using an automated external defibrillator (AED) if there’s one nearby. AEDs can help restart the heart. They’re safe and easy to use.
What support is available after helping someone in cardiac arrest?
If you have responded to someone in cardiac arrest, it’s normal to feel shaken or emotional. Talking to someone can help you process what happened. Below are some organisations that offer mental health support.
- Lifeline - Ph 13 44 14
- Suicide Call Back Service - Ph 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue - Ph 1300 224 363
- 13YARN - Ph 13 92 76
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between DRSABCD and Call, Push, Shock?
DRSABCD is the term that is designed to help people remember the steps involved in a first aid response. It is taught in many first aid courses and it covers everything from checking for danger to clearing airways and checking breathing. It’s detailed and great for trained responders.
But in an emergency, panic can make it hard to remember lots of steps. Additionally, most people in Australia aren’t trained for first aid.
That’s why we use Call, Push, Shock. It’s just three clear actions:
- Call Triple Zero (000)
- Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest
- Shock with an AED
It’s simple, fast, and easy to remember – because when someone’s heart stops, every second counts.
How am I protected as a responder?
Any resuscitation attempt is better than none. Most states have civil liability laws that may provide protections to bystanders that perform CPR under certain conditions. When you call Triple Zero (000), the call taker will guide you through next steps, including CPR if you don’t know what to do.
Cardiac arrest
CPR