How To Do CPR

CPR Basics: Understanding the Fundamentals

CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation is an emergency procedure performed when a person’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain oxygen circulation in the body. CPR can be performed on individuals of all ages, including babies, and children.

CPR is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths designed to manually preserve brain function until further measures can be taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing. The primary goal of CPR is to maintain a flow of oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital organs, thereby preventing brain damage and death.

When to Perform CPR

CPR should be administered when a person is unresponsive and not breathing or not breathing normally (e.g., only gasping). Scenarios that may require CPR include:
– Sudden cardiac arrest
– Drowning
– Choking
– Severe allergic reactions
– Electric shock

Why CPR is Important and Should be Learned?

• Learning CPR equips parents with life-saving skills to respond to emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, choking, or near-drowning
• Knowing CPR boosts confidence and reduces helplessness in a crisis.
• CPR ensures the safety of the entire family in emergencies.

When is CPR Done?

As a parent, learning CPR and being prepared to respond effectively in these emergencies can potentially save your child’s life.

Here is the guidance for parents regarding when to perform CPR,

• Suffocation or choking: If a child is unable to breathe due to an obstructed airway.
• Near-drowning: When a child has experienced a submersion incident and is unresponsive.
• Severe trauma or injury: In cases where a child is unconscious and not breathing due to a traumatic event.
• Electric shock: If a child has been electrocuted and is unresponsive or not breathing.
• Drug overdose: When a child has ingested or been exposed to a potentially lethal substance and is unresponsive or not breathing.
• Sudden collapse: If a child suddenly collapses and is unconscious, not breathing, or showing no signs of life.

What are the 7 steps of CPR

CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is an emergency life-saving technique used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped.

• Airway: Ensure the infant’s airway is clear. Place the infant on a firm surface, such as a table or the ground, and position yourself next to the infant.

• Breathing: Check for breathing. Look, listen, and feel for any signs of normal breathing for about 5-10 seconds. If the infant is not breathing or only gasping, proceed to the next steps.

• Compressions: Perform chest compressions. Place two fingers in the center of the infant’s chest, just below the nipple line. Apply firm and steady pressure, compressing the chest about 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep. Perform 30 compressions at a rate of around 100-120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

• D – Deliver breaths: After completing the 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths to the infant. Maintain an open airway by tilting the infant’s head slightly back, lifting the chin, and covering the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth. Deliver gentle breaths for about 1 second each, observing the rise and fall of the infant’s chest.

CPR for Children

Important Considerations

• Infants have more delicate structures, so use gentle pressure and provide compressions with two fingers at a depth of about 1.5 inches.
• In children, the heel of one or two hands is used with compressions about 2 inches deep.
• For teens, adult CPR techniques are typically applied with compressions about 2 inches deep using two hands.
• Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• Promptly call emergency services for professional help.

CPR Duration: Knowing When to Stop

Here are the points indicating when to stop CPR for infants in proper formatting:

• Stop CPR if your infant shows signs of life.
• Seek immediate help if you become physically exhausted.
• Stop CPR when instructed by the AED or a trained professional takes over.
• Step aside and let medical professionals take over when they arrive.
• Stop CPR if a medical professional declares the infant deceased.

Remember to seek proper CPR training for a comprehensive understanding of the guidelines, and always rely on medical professionals for expert guidance

Conclusion:

Learning how to perform CPR correctly is a vital skill that can save lives during emergencies. Whether it’s on a baby, child, or adult, understanding the step-by-step process and following proper techniques can make a significant difference. Remember, enrolling in a certified CPR and first aid training course is highly recommended to gain hands-on practice, build confidence, and stay updated with the latest guidelines.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and encourages seeking medical care for specific conditions. It is important to note that this information is not a substitute for medical advice, and we cannot be held responsible for any consequence.