Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving emergency procedure used to revive individuals who are in cardiac arrest or experiencing a sudden cessation of heart and lung function. CPR is essential because it can maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain, until professional medical help arrives. Here's an overview of CPR, its steps, and some key considerations:

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Basic CPR Steps:

Check for Safety: Before approaching the victim, ensure the environment is safe for both you and the victim. Check for hazards like traffic, fire, or electrical dangers.

Assess Responsiveness: Tap the victim and shout loudly, "Are you okay?" If there's no response, the person might be unresponsive and in need of CPR.

Call for Help: If you are alone, call emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) immediately. If there is someone nearby, instruct them to make the call while you start CPR.

Open the Airway: Gently tilt the victim's head backward and lift the chin to open the airway. This helps ensure a clear passage for air to enter and exit the lungs.

Check for Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing. Place your ear close to the victim's mouth while watching their chest for any rise and fall. If there is no breathing or only irregular gasping, begin CPR.

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Chest Compressions:

Position your hands on the centre of the victim's chest (usually between the nipples). Lock your elbows and use your upper body weight to push down hard and fast at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute.

Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

Rescue Breaths (If Trained): After 30 chest compressions (15 compressions for infants), give two rescue breaths. Pinch the victim's nose shut and cover their mouth with yours. Give each breath over about one second, ensuring the chest rises visibly.

Continue CPR: Repeat cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths until the victim shows signs of life, trained help arrives, or you are physically unable to continue.

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Key Considerations:

AED (Automated External Defibrillator): If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible. It can analyse the victim's heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock if necessary to restore a normal heartbeat.

Compression Depth and Rate: Compressions should be at least 2 inches (5 cm) deep for adults and children, and about 1.5 inches (4 cm) for infants. Maintain a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

Hands-Only CPR: If you are untrained or uncomfortable with rescue breaths, you can perform hands-only CPR (chest compressions only). It's better than doing nothing.

Do Not Interrupt Compressions: Minimise interruptions during chest compressions to maximise blood flow.

Rotate Rescuers: If there are multiple people available, rotate rescuers every 2 minutes to avoid fatigue.

Continue Until Help Arrives: Continue CPR until professional medical help arrives, the victim starts breathing, or you are physically unable to continue.

CPR is a crucial skill that can make a significant difference in the outcome of a cardiac arrest. While this overview provides the basic steps, it is essential to take a certified CPR course to gain hands-on experience and ensure you are up to date with the latest guidelines and techniques. Being prepared and knowing CPR can save lives in emergency situations.