Saudi Red Crescent saves Indonesian pilgrim after cardiac arrest

Saudi Gazette report

MAKKAH — The Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) saved the life of an Indonesian pilgrim who suffered cardiac arrest within the sacred precincts of the Al-Masaa.

The incident highlights the crucial role of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) strategically placed throughout the Grand Mosque.

SRCA emergency teams arrived at the scene within an impressive four-minute window, finding the pilgrim, a man in his fifties, unconscious and not breathing.

Acting with urgency, the team performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and used an AED to deliver a life-saving electric shock, successfully restoring the pilgrim’s heartbeat. He was then transported to Ajyad Emergency Hospital for further medical care.

The availability of 15 AED devices within the Grand Mosque reflects a strong commitment to pilgrim safety, enabling rapid emergency responses and significantly improving survival outcomes in critical situations.