CPR Training

Here's a breakdown of what CPR is and how it's performed:

What is CPR?

• CPR is an emergency procedure that attempts to manually preserve intact brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest.  

• Cardiac arrest can occur due to various reasons, including heart attack, drowning, or electric shock.

• CPR aims to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs, increasing the chances of survival.  

How CPR is Performed:

The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of chest compressions. Here's a general guide:  

1. Assess the Situation:

• Check for responsiveness: Gently shake the person and shout, "Are you OK?"

• If the person is unresponsive, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.

• If possible, have someone else retrieve an automated external defibrillator (AED).

2. Chest Compressions:

• Place the person on their back on a firm surface.

• Kneel beside the person's chest.  

• Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest (lower half of the breastbone).  

• Place your other hand on top of the first hand and interlock your fingers.

• Position your body so that your shoulders are directly above your hands.  

• Push straight down on the chest, compressing it at a depth of at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) for adults.  

• Perform compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.  

• Allow the chest to recoil (return to its original position) completely after each compression.  

3. Airway (If trained):

• After 30 chest compressions, open the person's airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver.

  • Place one hand on the person's forehead and gently tilt their head back.  

  • Place the fingers of your other hand under the person's chin and gently lift it upward.

•  4. Breathing (If trained):

• Pinch the person's nose closed.

• Seal your mouth tightly over the person's mouth.

• Give two rescue breaths, each lasting about one second, and watch for the chest to rise.  

• Return to chest compressions.

5. Continue CPR:

• Continue cycles of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths (if trained) until:

  • Emergency medical services arrive and take over.

  • An AED is available and ready to use.

  • The person shows signs of life, such as moving or breathing.

  • You are too exhausted to continue.

Hands-Only CPR:

• If you are not trained in traditional CPR or are uncomfortable giving rescue breaths, you can perform hands-only CPR.  

• Hands-only CPR involves continuous chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.  

• This method is effective in many cases, especially for adults who have suddenly collapsed.

Important Notes:

• CPR is most effective when performed immediately after cardiac arrest.  

• Proper training is essential for performing CPR correctly.

• AEDs can significantly increase the chances of survival during cardiac arrest.  

• Always prioritize calling emergency services.