CPR First Aid

CPR First Aid Guide

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR can be crucial in situations such as a heart attack, drowning, or cardiac arrest. This guide provides a brief overview of CPR First Aid procedures.

NEW BORN BABY

FOR ADULTS

When to Perform CPR:

• The person is unresponsive and not breathing, or only gasping.
• The person is unconscious and not showing signs of life.

Steps for Performing CPR:

1. Ensure Safety:

   • Make sure the environment is safe for both you and the victim.
   • Check for responsiveness by tapping the person and shouting, “Are you okay?”

2. Call for Help:

   • If the person is unresponsive, immediately call emergency services (e.g., 911 or your local emergency number).
   • 
     If possible, ask someone nearby to get an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

3. Open the Airway:

   • Place one hand on the person’s forehead and gently tilt the head back.
   • Lift the chin with the other hand to open the airway.

4. Check for Breathing:

   • Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
   • If the person is not breathing or only gasping, proceed with chest compressions.
     

5. Begin Chest Compressions:

   • Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, and place your other hand on top.
   • Interlock your fingers and keep your arms straight.
   • Push hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Compress the chest at least 2 inches deep for adults.
   • Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

6. Give Rescue Breaths (if trained):

   • After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
   • Pinch the nose shut, cover the person’s mouth with yours, and blow to make the chest rise.
   • If you’re not trained or uncomfortable giving breaths, continue with compressions only.
     

7. Use an AED (if available):

   • Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts.
   • Attach the pads as indicated by the AED and ensure no one touches the person during analysis.
   • If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear and press the shock button.

8. Continue CPR:

   • Perform cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until professional help arrives or the person starts breathing.
     

Special Considerations:

• Children: Use one hand for chest compressions if the child is small. For infants, use two fingers for compressions.
• Drowning Victims: Give rescue breaths first before starting compressions.
• Pregnant Women: Perform chest compressions higher on the sternum, and if trained, consider left lateral tilt to relieve pressure.

After CPR:

• Monitor the person’s condition until emergency services take over.
• If the person regains consciousness, place them in the recovery position (lying on their side).
  

Conclusion:

CPR is a critical skill that can save lives in emergencies. Regularly updating your CPR knowledge and getting certified through a first aid course can help you respond effectively in an emergency.