Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is an essential emergency procedure that can dramatically increase a person's chances of survival during cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart abruptly stops beating, halting blood flow to vital organs. Immediate CPR can maintain crucial blood circulation, buying time until professional medical assistance arrives.
The impact of CPR is significant. Studies have shown that performing CPR can double or even triple a victim's likelihood of survival. Furthermore, rapid intervention can minimize the risk of irreversible brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation.
One of the most empowering aspects of CPR is that anyone can perform it, regardless of prior training. In cases involving adults and teens, hands-only CPR, focusing solely on chest compressions, is highly effective. For infants and children, a combination of chest compressions and rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) is generally recommended.
CPR becomes necessary when someone's heart ceases to function, or they stop breathing and lack a pulse. This situation often arises during cardiac arrest, which can be triggered by heart attacks, near-drowning incidents, severe injuries, or trauma.
During cardiac arrest, the heart's inability to pump blood leads to oxygen starvation in the brain and lungs. Without intervention, death can occur within minutes. CPR provides a crucial lifeline by manually circulating blood through chest compressions. This action sustains vital organ function until emergency medical services arrive.
It's important to distinguish between cardiac arrest and a heart attack. A heart attack involves a blockage of blood flow to a portion of the heart, causing muscle damage. A person experiencing a heart attack typically remains conscious and breathing. While CPR isn't required for a heart attack victim, immediate medical attention is critical to minimize long-term heart damage. A heart attack can also increase the risk of cardiac arrest.
The recommended sequence for CPR is compressions, airway, and breathing (C-A-B). However, untrained individuals should focus on continuous chest compressions.
Before initiating CPR, prioritize safety and seek help.
First, assess the environment to ensure it is safe for you and the victim. Check for responsiveness, breathing, and any apparent life-threatening injuries. Immediately call emergency services. If someone is available, delegate the call to them so you can begin chest compressions without delay.
To perform hands-only CPR:
Position the person on their back on a firm surface. Kneel beside them, positioning your knees shoulder-width apart. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest and interlock your fingers with your other hand. Keep your elbows locked and arms straight, ensuring your shoulders are directly above your hands. Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression. Continue these compressions without interruption until professional help arrives.
For trained individuals comfortable with the procedure, rescue breathing can be incorporated after 30 chest compressions. To open the airway, use the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver. Pinch the person's nose, create a seal with your mouth over theirs, and deliver two rescue breaths, watching for the chest to rise. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again. If the chest still doesn't rise, an obstruction may be present in the airway.
While hands-only CPR is suitable for adults and teens, combining chest compressions and rescue breathing is preferred for children and infants. This combination optimizes oxygen delivery and minimizes the risk of brain damage.
For children:
Ensure the area is safe and, if possible, obtain parental consent. Check for responsiveness and breathing. Call emergency services or ask a bystander to do so. Perform 30 chest compressions using one or two hands, depending on the child's size, compressing the chest about 2 inches deep at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Open the airway using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique and deliver two rescue breaths.
For infants:
Prioritize safety and seek parental consent, if possible. Check for responsiveness and breathing. Call emergency services or ask a bystander to do so. Use two fingers to deliver 30 chest compressions, compressing the chest about 1.5 inches deep at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Open the airway to a neutral position (avoid overextension). Cover the infant's mouth and nose with your mouth and deliver two gentle puffs of air.
CPR certification is an excellent way to enhance your skills and confidence. Courses are available in person, online, or in blended formats. Certification typically lasts two years. Check with your employer or organization for specific certification requirements. Reputable organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer CPR certification classes.
CPR is a powerful tool that can save lives. By learning and practicing CPR, you can become a vital link in the chain of survival. Remember to prioritize safety, call for help, and act quickly to give the victim the best possible chance of recovery.