Introduction
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can significantly increase survival rates during cardiac arrest. This guide covers the essential steps and techniques for performing CPR on adults, children, and infants, as well as when to use hands-only CPR. Understanding these techniques can make a critical difference in emergency situations.
Checking Responsiveness and Calling for Help
Before starting CPR, ensure the scene is safe. Tap the person’s shoulder and ask, “Are you okay?” Check for breathing by observing chest movement. If there’s no response or breathing, immediately call 9-1-1. Assign someone else to make the call if you’re in a group to avoid confusion. If you are alone, call 9-1-1 first before starting CPR.
Performing Chest Compressions
Adults and Children Over 1 Year
Kneel beside the casualty with one knee level with their head and the other with their chest. Locate the lower half of the sternum (breastbone) and place the heel of one hand on it, with the other hand on top. Interlock fingers, keep arms straight, and press down about one-third of the chest depth at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Perform compressions at a rate of at least 100 per minute (e.g., to the beat of the song ‘Stayin’ Alive’ by the Bee Gees).
Infants Under 1 Year
Use two fingers (index and middle) on the lower half of the sternum, pressing down about one-third of the chest depth. Compressions and releases should take equal time. After 30 compressions, give 2 breaths (tilt head, lift chin slightly for infants). Repeat 30:2 cycles until help arrives or the casualty shows signs of life.
Hands-Only CPR
Hands-only CPR is recommended for unresponsive victims who are not breathing normally. This technique involves continuous chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute without rescue breaths. If the person is breathing normally, hands-only CPR is sufficient. However, if the victim is not breathing, add two rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. This approach aligns with American Heart Association guidelines for adult cardiac arrest scenarios.
AED Use
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are simple to use — follow voice prompts and place pads anywhere on the chest. Compressions should continue during AED preparation unless the device explicitly instructs otherwise. If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible.
Choking Response
For large choking victims, use the ‘wall technique’ by pushing their back against a wall and applying upper abdominal thrusts. Always ask directly if someone needs help, as silent choking is common. If the person is choking and cannot breathe, cough, or speak, perform abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled.
Recovery Position
If the casualty regains consciousness but is unconscious, turn them onto their side into the recovery position, check their condition, manage injuries, and be ready to restart CPR if needed.
Key Findings
Breathing is no longer required for laypeople during CPR, as agonal respirations (irregular breathing post-arrest) provide minimal oxygen exchange. Pulse checks are discouraged for untrained individuals, as they delay critical compressions. Immediate CPR can increase survival chances by 300% according to the American Heart Association.
Summary
CPR is now simplified to two checks (unconsciousness and breathing) and one action (chest compressions). This makes it accessible to anyone, potentially saving lives before emergency services arrive. Always take a hands-on CPR course for proper training.