CPR: A Life-Saving Skill Everyone Should Know

Introduction:

"Knowing CPR can mean the difference between life and death. As someone who's been trained in CPR, I believe it's a vital skill everyone should possess. This post serves as a refresher on the key steps of adult CPR. Remember, this is for informational purposes only, and hands-on training is crucial for proper certification."

What is CPR?

"CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It's an emergency procedure performed when someone's heart or breathing has stopped. By performing CPR, you can help circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs until professional medical help arrives."

When to Perform CPR:

• The person is unresponsive (doesn't respond to touch or sound).
• The person is not breathing normally (or only gasping).

Steps of Adult CPR:

1. Assess the Situation:

   • Ensure the scene is safe for you and the victim.
   • Check for responsiveness: "Are you okay?"
   • Call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or ask someone to do it.

2. Check for Breathing:

   • Look for chest rise and fall for no more than 10 seconds.

3. Begin CPR (if not breathing normally):

   • Hand placement: Heel of one hand in the center of the chest, between the nipples. Other hand on top, interlaced fingers.
   • Compressions: Push hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Compress at least 2 inches (5 cm) deep.
   • Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. Tilt the head back, lift the chin, pinch the nose, and seal over the mouth. Each breath should last about 1 second and make the chest rise.
   • Continue: Repeat cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives or the person shows signs of life.

4. Using an AED (if available):

   • Turn it on and follow the prompts.
   • Attach pads as shown.
   • Let the AED analyze the heart rhythm.
   • Deliver a shock if advised.
   • Resume CPR immediately after a shock.

Important Reminders:

• Minimize interruptions to compressions.
• Take a certified CPR course for hands-on training.
• Stay updated on the latest guidelines from the AHA or ILCOR.

This video is provided by American Heart Association

My personal experience

Do not hesitate to perform CPR just because the victim is larger than you. Your efforts can still be life-saving. Remember, doing something is always better than doing nothing in a cardiac emergency.

Proper positioning: Ensure you are kneeling close to the victim's side. This allows you to use your body weight more effectively.

Use your core muscles: Engage your core muscles to help generate force during compressions.  

Don't be afraid to ask for help: If other bystanders are present, ask for help. Even if they are not CPR certified, they can assist with calling 911, retrieving an AED, or taking over compressions if you become fatigued.

If you need to see a full CPR procedure, you can watch this video below. The information is provided by ProTrainings.uk

You can share your constructive thoughts here and for further information, please refer to AHA and ILCOR website.