What is CPR? A Beginner's Guide

The Importance of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Every second counts in saving a person's life in such an emergency. It is essential to perform CPR within the first ten minutes after the incident occurs. If the brain oxygen supply is cut off for ten minutes, the person have permanent brain damage with almost zero chances of survival. According to recent research, administering life-saving measures increases the probability of survival for cardiac arrest patients by 40%. Important to note is that CPR only applies to unconscious persons who are not breathing.

CPR Consists of Two Main Steps:

1. Chest compressions are performed by pressing the victim's chest in a rhythmic pattern. This keeps the heart pumping and circulating oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital organs. Read more

2. Rescue breaths are performed by giving two breaths into the victim's mouth. This is done to help keep the lungs inflated and to provide oxygen to the victim. Read more

Following the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines is crucial when performing CPR. The AHA recommends that chest compressions be performed at 100-120 compressions per minute and that rescue breaths should be given at a rate of one breath every 5-6 seconds. It is vital to ensure that the heart compressions are deep enough (at least 2 inches) and that the rescue breaths are given enough force to make the chest rise.

CPR is an essential skill that everyone should learn. It is learned in various ways, including online CPR/AED courses, in-person classes, or even through videos. It is necessary to stay updated with the latest guidelines from the AHA as they are constantly being updated.

CPR Procedures for Adult, Child, Infant

‍Adults: It is important to perform CPR on adults to restore the function of the heart and lungs when the heart is not beating due to cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergency situations. It help support circulation until Emergency Medical Services arrive.
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‍Children: Since children’s hearts and lungs are smaller and weaker than those of adults, immediate CPR for pediatric patient is important to increase the chances of recovering from cardiac arrest. It help support their circulation and increase their chances of survival until Emergency Medical Services arrive.
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‍Infants: It is important to perform CPR on infants since their hearts and lungs are even more fragile than those of adults and children. Early treatment is key in helping to revive an infant and restoring their heart and lung function, as well as providing support until medical assistance arrive.

Advantages and Disadvantages of CPR

While CPR has significant advantages in improving the chances of survival during cardiac arrest and other life-threatening situations, it also has limitations and potential disadvantages. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of CPR:

Advantages of CPR:

1. Immediate Response: CPR can be initiated immediately by bystanders or trained individuals at the scene of a heart failure, providing critical support until professional medical help arrives.
2. Increased Survival Rates: CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival when performed promptly. Early CPR helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, which can prevent irreversible damage.
3. Easy to Learn: CPR techniques are relatively easy to master and can be taught to the general public through training courses and certification programs. This knowledge allows more people to perform CPR when necessary.
4. Availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs): CPR is often used in conjunction with AEDs, which are automated devices that can analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock if needed. AEDs are becoming more accessible in public places, further improving the chances of survival.

Disadvantages of CPR:

1. Risk of Injury: CPR involves forceful Cardiopulmonary compressions and rescue breaths, which can potentially lead to rib fractures, damage to internal organs, or injuries to the person receiving CPR, especially in elderly or frail individuals.
2. Limited Effectiveness: CPR alone may not always be effective in restoring normal heart rhythm or reversing the underlying cause of heart attack. It serves as a bridge until more advanced medical interventions, such as defibrillation or medications, can be administered.
3. Fatigue and Quality of CPR: Maintaining high-quality CPR can be physically demanding, and the quality of CPR may deteriorate over time, especially if performed by untrained individuals. Fatigue can lead to inadequate chest pumping and ventilation.
4. No Guarantee of Success: Despite the best efforts, CPR may not always result in a successful outcome. The effectiveness of CPR depends on various factors, including the cause of cardiac arrest, the person's overall health, and the timeliness of the response.
5. Risk of Disease Transmission: Providing rescue breaths during CPR may carry a risk of disease transmission, although this risk is generally considered low. It's essential for responders to use appropriate protective measures, such as face shields or pocket masks.

Legal Implications of Performing CPR

Understanding the legal implications of CPR is crucial, particularly in countries with Good Samaritan Laws. Good Samaritan Laws offer legal safety nets during emergency medical aid to individuals who perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in good faith during medical emergencies. They protect against civil liability and encourage bystander intervention. However, responders must act reasonably and within their capabilities. Laws vary by country, so it's essential to be familiar with the specific regulations in your jurisdiction and get certified in CPR training.

Compare our CPR and First Aid courses tailored for both Health Care Providers and Non-Health Care Providers, and select the option that best meets your needs.