Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical emergency procedure that can save lives when someone experiences cardiac arrest or stops breathing. As a provider of emergency response education, MyCPR NOW recognizes the vital importance of knowing how and when to administer CPR. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps of CPR, discuss when CPR is necessary, and provide essential information to empower individuals to respond effectively in emergency situations.
I. What is CPR?
1. CPR Defined: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to help circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and vital organs in the event of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
2. Purpose of CPR: The primary goal of CPR is to maintain blood flow to the brain and heart until professional medical help arrives.
II. When to Administer CPR
1. Unresponsive and Not Breathing: CPR is necessary when an individual is unresponsive and not breathing or not breathing normally.
2. Absence of Pulse: If a pulse is not detected during the initial assessment, CPR should be started immediately.
3. Sudden Cardiac Arrest: CPR is essential in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, where the heart stops beating effectively.
III. Assessing the Scene
1. Ensure Safety: Before approaching the victim, assess the scene for any potential hazards or dangers.
2. Check Responsiveness:
a. Tap the person gently and shout loudly to check for responsiveness.
b. If unresponsive, shout for help and call emergency services immediately.
IV. Performing CPR - The ABCs
1. A - Airway
a. Open Airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
b. Check for Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing. If the person is not breathing or not breathing normally, proceed to CPR.
2. B - Breathing
a. Give Rescue Breaths:
i. Pinch the person's nose shut and cover their mouth with yours.
ii. Give two rescue breaths, each lasting about one second, making sure the chest rises with each breath.
b. Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio:
i. For single rescuers, perform CPR with a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
ii. For two rescuers, use a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths as well, coordinating your efforts.
3. C - Circulation
a. Begin Chest Compressions:
i. Position yourself beside the victim's chest.
ii. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's chest, just below the nipple line.
iii. Interlock your fingers and keep your arms straight.
iv. Compress the chest at least two inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
v. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
b. Continue CPR:
i. Administer cycles of 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths until:
- The person starts breathing normally
- An automated external defibrillator (AED) becomes available
- Professional medical help arrives
4. Using an AED (if available)
a. If an AED is available, turn it on and follow the prompts.
b. Attach the AED pads to the person's chest as directed.
c. Stand clear and allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm.
d. If advised, deliver a shock according to the AED's instructions.
e. Continue CPR immediately after delivering the shock.
V. Hand-Only CPR
1. Hand-only CPR is an alternative for individuals who are not trained in rescue breaths or are uncomfortable performing them.
2. In hand-only CPR, rescuers should perform continuous chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute without rescue breaths.
VI. When to Stop CPR
1. Stop CPR if:
a. The person starts breathing normally.
b. AED prompts to stop and reanalyze.
c. Professional medical help arrives and takes over.
d. You are too exhausted to continue.
2. Continue CPR until professional help takes over or you physically cannot continue.
VII. Special Considerations
1. Child and Infant CPR: For children and infants, use age-appropriate compression depths and provide rescue breaths.
2. Pregnant Victims: When performing CPR on a pregnant victim, place your hands slightly higher on the chest to avoid compressing the uterus.
3. COVID-19 Precautions: Consider using personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and a face mask if available.
VIII. First Aid and CPR Training
1. CPR Techniques: First aid and CPR training equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to perform CPR effectively.
2. Hands-On Practice: Training provides hands-on practice to build confidence in performing CPR.
IX. Conclusion
CPR is a life-saving technique that can make a significant difference in emergency situations. As the provider of emergency response education, MyCPR NOW emphasizes the importance of knowing how and when to administer CPR. By following the ABCs - Airway, Breathing, and Circulation - individuals can effectively perform CPR to maintain blood flow to vital organs until professional medical help arrives. Remember, CPR is a critical skill that can empower you to respond confidently and save lives in emergency situations. By learning CPR techniques through first aid and CPR training, you become a vital link in the chain of survival, contributing to a safer and more prepared community.
