CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is a lifesaving technique used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR combines chest compressions with rescue breathing to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and heart. The purpose of CPR is to restart the heart and maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until more advanced medical help arrives. CPR is a critical intervention in cases of cardiac arrest and can greatly increase a person’s chances of survival. It is important to note that CPR should only be performed by trained and authorized individuals, as it can be physically demanding, and improper technique can cause harm.
When is CPR used?
CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is used when a person’s heart has stopped beating and they are not breathing properly. It is an emergency procedure that is performed in an effort to revive a person and restore normal heart function. CPR is typically used in cases of cardiac arrest, which is when the heart suddenly stops beating, or in cases of near-drowning, drug overdose, or other respiratory emergencies. The goal of CPR is to keep the person alive until more advanced medical care can be obtained.
How to do CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used to revive a person whose heart has stopped beating. Here are the steps for performing CPR:
Check for danger: Make sure the scene is safe for both you and the person in need of CPR.
Check for responsiveness: Tap the person’s shoulder and ask loudly, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, call for emergency medical services.
Check for breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing. If the person is not breathing or only gasping for air, it’s time to start CPR.
Position your hands: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest, and place the other hand on top of the first hand. Interlock your fingers and keep your elbows straight.
Perform chest compressions: Use your body weight to perform rapid and deep compressions, pressing down about 2 inches (5 cm) on the person’s chest. Perform 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
Give breaths: Tilt the person’s head back slightly and lift their chin. Pinch their nose shut and give two breaths, making sure their chest rises with each breath.
Repeat: Continue alternating chest compressions and breaths until emergency medical services arrive or the person begins to revive.
It’s important to note that CPR should only be performed by someone who has been trained in the technique and is confident in their ability to perform it correctly. If you are not trained in CPR, it’s best to wait for professional help to arrive.
After performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation), it is important to seek emergency medical help as soon as possible. CPR is a temporary measure used to maintain circulation and oxygen flow to the brain and other vital organs until emergency medical personnel arrive.
Once medical help arrives, the victim will typically receive advanced life support measures, such as defibrillation with an AED (automated external defibrillator) and advanced airway management. The healthcare provider will also assess the victim’s condition, check for any other medical issues and provide any necessary treatments.
It’s important to remember that CPR alone may not be enough to revive someone who has suffered cardiac arrest and that seeking immediate medical help is crucial for the best possible outcome.
