BLS Certification Manual: Compressions for Adults
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Recognizing Cardiac Arrest
- 3. Positioning & Pulse Check
- 4. Compressions for Adults
- 5. Compressions for Infants & Children
- 6. Ventilation Equipment
- 7. Ventilations for Adults
- 8. Ventilations for Infants & Children
- 9. AED Usage
- 10. AED Special Circumstances
- 11. Choking
- 12. Choking Procedures for Adults & Children
- 13. Choking Procedures for Infants
- 14. Team Roles
- 15. Effective Team Dynamics
- 16. Common Mistakes
- 17. Conclusion
- MyCPR Now™ Glossary
STARTING TO PERFORM CHEST COMPRESSIONS
If a victim requires CPR compressions, a rescuer will first have to find a landmark to place his/her hands. Clothing should be removed from the chest to make this area visible. The rescuer should move to the side of the victim.
The heel (palm) of the bottom hand needs to be placed on the sternum (breast bone) along the lower half of the bone (nipple line or slightly below). Then take the heel of the other hand and place it on top of the bottom hand with both arms straight. Next, begin chest compressions by compressing the chest downward at least 2 inches for 30 chest compressions. Each set of 30 compressions will be followed by 2 ventilations (30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio), which completes 1 cycle. Each compression should allow full chest recoil (the re-expansion of the chest, allowing blood flow to the heart). The goal is to perform 100-120 compressions per minute and at least 5 cycles per 2 minutes before switching partners (in multi-rescuer CPR) to avoid fatigue. Ensure you use your body weight to achieve sufficient compression depth.
Performing CPR correctly can significantly increase the chances of survival until professional help arrives. In the event that help has arrived and inserted an advanced airway, compressions should be continuous with ventilations delivered every 5-6 seconds.
*Special Note: If the correct hand position cannot be achieved, an alternative technique would be to use the first hand in the same position and the second hand wrapped around the wrist of the first.
Quick Tip: Compress to the beat of Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees to achieve between 100-120 compressions per minute.
Compressions are the first step in performing: C-A-B
Circulation (Compressions create the circulation)
Airway
Breathing
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR OPIOID OVERDOSE SCA
During an opioid overdose, breathing may slow or stop, which can quickly become life-threatening. Administer naloxone (Narcan) as soon as it is available according to the product instructions. If the person does not respond within 2–3 minutes, administer a second dose if available. If the victim is not breathing normally, begin CPR to help maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to the brain and vital organs. Continue providing care and monitor the victim closely until emergency medical services arrive.
HANDS ONLY CPR WITHOUT RESCUE BREATHS
Hands only CPR may be recommended if the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as a barrier device, gloves, gown, etc. is not available. Hands only CPR involves compressions without ventilations.