“Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees may be best known for its infectious disco beat, but it turns out that the song’s rhythm can also play a crucial role in saving lives. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends using the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” as a guide when performing CPR chest compressions, as the tempo aligns with the optimal rate of compressions.
According to the AHA, the ideal rate for chest compressions during CPR is 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Coincidentally, the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” clocks in at around 103 beats per minute, making it an excellent mnemonic device for maintaining the recommended compression rate. A proper chest compression rate is essential for effective CPR, as it helps circulate blood and oxygen throughout the body, increasing the chances of survival.
Using “Stayin’ Alive” as a mental metronome while performing CPR can be helpful, especially for untrained individuals or those who might be anxious during an emergency. By focusing on the beat of the song, one can maintain a consistent compression rate, which is crucial for the effectiveness of the life-saving technique.
The AHA’s recommendation of using the “Stayin’ Alive” beat has been widely recognized and promoted in CPR training courses and public health campaigns, making this disco hit a valuable resource for life-saving efforts. So, the next time you hear the familiar rhythm of “Stayin’ Alive,” remember that its beat could be the key to saving someone’s life during an emergency.
Article sources:
American Heart Association. (2020). CPR Facts and Stats. [online] Available at: https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats
Sayre, M. R., Berg, R. A., Cave, D. M., Page, R. L., Potts, J., & White, R. D. (2008). Hands-Only (Compression-Only) Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Call to Action for Bystander Response to Adults Who Experience Out-of-Hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Circulation, 117(16), 2162-2167. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.107.189380
