How to perform CPR: The Ultimate Guide to Be a Superhero Lifesaver!

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used in emergency situations to revive someone who is experiencing cardiac arrest or has stopped breathing. Knowing how to perform CPR can be the difference between life and death in critical situations. This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to perform CPR. Remember, timing is of the essence when it comes to CPR, so let’s delve into it.

Introduction

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is a first-aid technique that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to keep blood and oxygen flowing to the vital organs of a person in cardiac arrest.

Assess the Situation

Before initiating CPR, it is crucial to assess the situation for any potential dangers. Ensure that the environment is safe for both you and the person in need of CPR. If there are any hazards present, make sure to remove them or move the person to a safer location.

Check for Responsiveness

Check for responsiveness by giving the person a light tap on the shoulder and asking, “Are you okay?” The person is most certainly unconscious and in need of immediate CPR if there is no reaction.

Call for Help

You should first call emergency services or instruct anyone to do so.  Give precise and succinct details regarding the area and the circumstance. If possible, ask for an automated external defibrillator (AED) to be brought to the scene.

Open the Airway

On a stable surface, lay the person on their back. Gently tilt their head back with one hand while lifting their chin with your other hand. This manoeuvre helps to open the airway, ensuring a clear passage for air to enter and exit.

Check for Breathing

Look, listen, and feel for breathing. Keep your face close to the person’s mouth, observe for chest movements, listen for any sounds of breathing, and feel for air on your cheek. If there are no signs of breathing or only gasping, proceed to the next step.

Perform Chest Compressions

Position yourself next to the person’s chest. Place the heel of your hand on the centre of the chest, slightly above the lower half of the breastbone. Keep your fingers together and your arms straight. Depress the chest at least 2 inches (5 centimetres) deep and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Between compressions, let the chest fully recoil.

Administer Rescue Breaths

After performing 30 chest compressions, provide rescue breaths. Maintain the open airway by tilting the head back. Pinch the person’s nose shut, place your mouth over their mouth, and give two slow breaths, each lasting about one second. Keep an eye out for a chest elevation with each inhalation.

Also Read:- 6 Ways to Administer CPR to Infants and Young Children

Continue CPR

Repeat cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths until aid arrives or the victim begins to show signs of life. It is essential to maintain a steady rhythm and avoid interruptions as much as possible.

Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

If an AED is available, use it according to the manual that came with it. Turn on the AED and attach the electrode pads to the person’s bare chest as indicated. The AED will analyse the person’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary. Follow the prompts given by the AED until medical personnel arrive.

Transitioning with Trained Medical Personnel

When trained medical personnel arrive, provide them with a concise summary of the situation and the actions you have taken. The resuscitation efforts will be taken up by them, and they’ll also offer top-notch medical treatment.

CPR for Infants and Children

Performing CPR on infants and children requires slight modifications to the technique. Use two fingers for chest compressions in infants and the heel of one hand in children. Adjust the depth and speed of compressions accordingly. If possible, use paediatric-specific AED pads.

Tips and Precautions

1. Take a certified CPR course to ensure you are familiar with the latest techniques and guidelines.
2. Apply firm pressure during chest compressions but avoid excessive force that may cause injury.
3. Minimize interruptions in compressions to maintain blood flow to vital organs.
4. Remember to tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway properly.
5. If there are multiple rescuers, coordinate the chest compressions and rescue breaths to maximize efficiency.

Conclusion

Learning how to perform CPR is a valuable skill that can save lives. By following the outlined steps and promptly initiating CPR, you can provide crucial support to someone experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. Remember to stay calm, call for help, and continue the cycle of chest compressions and rescue breaths until professional medical assistance arrives.