Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving skill that can be adapted to various scenarios. Knowing how to perform CPR in different situations can make a crucial difference in saving lives. Here are techniques for CPR in different scenarios:
1. Adult CPR:
- For an unresponsive adult who is not breathing or not breathing normally:
- Check for responsiveness by tapping the person and shouting loudly.
- Call 911 or ask someone else to call.
- Perform chest compressions:
- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest.
- Place the other hand on top of the first hand.
- Push hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths:
- Tilt the head back slightly to open the airway.
- Pinch the nose shut and breathe into the mouth until the chest rises.
- Continue cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives or the person starts breathing.
2. Child CPR (Ages 1-8):
- For an unresponsive child who is not breathing or not breathing normally:
- Check for responsiveness by tapping the child and shouting loudly.
- Call 911 or ask someone else to call.
- Perform chest compressions:
- Use one or two hands, depending on the child's size.
- Compress the chest about 1.5 inches (4 centimeters).
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths using a mask or barrier device.
- Continue cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives or the child starts breathing.
3. Infant CPR (Under Age 1):
- For an unresponsive infant who is not breathing or not breathing normally:
- Check for responsiveness by tapping the infant and shouting loudly.
- Call 911 or ask someone else to call.
- Perform chest compressions:
- Use two fingers to compress the chest about 1.5 inches (4 centimeters).
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths using a mask or barrier device.
- Continue cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives or the infant starts breathing.
4. Hands-Only CPR:
- In some cases, if you are not trained in or uncomfortable with rescue breaths, you can perform hands-only CPR for adults and children who have collapsed due to sudden cardiac arrest. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute until professional help arrives.
5. CPR in Special Situations:
- When dealing with drowning victims, perform CPR if they are unresponsive and not breathing. Remove them from the water, if safe to do so, and start CPR immediately.
- In cases of opioid overdose with unresponsiveness and breathing difficulties, perform CPR as needed while administering naloxone if available.
6. Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED):
- If an AED is available, follow the device's prompts. Attach the pads to the person's chest and let the AED analyze the heart rhythm. If advised, deliver a shock and continue CPR as directed.
7. Continuous Monitoring:
- Continue to monitor the person's condition and provide CPR until professional medical help arrives, or the person starts breathing and shows signs of life.
CPR is a critical skill that can save lives in various situations. Remember to stay calm, call for help, and provide CPR promptly and effectively according to the specific scenario and guidelines. Regular CPR training and certification can help ensure you are prepared to respond in emergencies.
