What is a common intervention for a first responder dealing with a suspected heart attack?

Administering aspirin is a common and critical intervention for a first responder dealing with a suspected heart attack, provided that there are no contraindications such as an allergy to aspirin or recent gastrointestinal bleeding. The administration of aspirin can help to thin the blood and improve blood flow to the heart muscle, which may reduce damage during a heart attack. It also helps prevent further clot formation in the coronary arteries.

In this emergency scenario, the first responder's role is to act quickly to stabilize the patient and support their condition until emergency medical services arrive. Aspirin has been widely supported in medical protocols as it can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality associated with cardiac events.

The other options presented do not align with the immediate needs of a suspected heart attack patient. Encouraging the patient to drink fluids is not appropriate as it could lead to complications or further distress. Performing back blows is associated with responding to choking rather than heart attack interventions. Keeping the patient awake and active is contraindicated in this situation; instead, the patient should be kept calm and at rest to reduce cardiovascular strain.