How to do Compression-Only CPR

Summary

This video teaches the life-saving technique of compression-only CPR, emphasizing its simplicity and effectiveness in cardiac emergencies. Viewers learn how to check for safety, assess responsiveness, and recognize life-threatening conditions. The video demonstrates the proper position for giving chest compressions, ensuring compressions are deep, fast, and consistent at 100-120 per minute. It also explains when to continue compressions and when to stop, such as when medical help arrives or signs of life appear. For those interested in full CPR and AED training, the video encourages taking an American Red Cross course.

Takeaways

• 😀 A cardiac emergency can occur anywhere, so it's important to be prepared.
• 😀 Compression-only CPR is a simple, life-saving technique you can learn quickly.
• 😀 Always check the scene for safety before approaching an unresponsive person.
• 😀 Use the shout-tap-shout technique to assess if the person responds to you.
• 😀 Look for signs of life-threatening conditions like difficulty breathing or severe bleeding.
• 😀 If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, call 9-1-1 and get a First Aid kit and AED.
• 😀 Place the person on a firm, flat surface before starting CPR.
• 😀 Position your body correctly for chest compressions by locking your elbows and using your body weight.
• 😀 Perform compressions at a depth of at least 2 inches, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• 😀 Continue CPR until signs of life appear, an AED is available, or trained help arrives.
• 😀 If you want to learn full CPR and AED use, consider taking a certified CPR/AED course from the American Red Cross.

Q & A

What is compression-only CPR?

Compression-only CPR is a technique used to help save a life in case of a cardiac emergency. It involves performing chest compressions without providing rescue breaths.

How quickly can someone learn compression-only CPR?

Compression-only CPR can be learned in just a few minutes. It’s simple to remember and can be used in an emergency to help save a life.

What should you do first when someone collapses?

First, check the scene for safety. Then, check if the person responds by using the shout-tap-shout technique. If they are unresponsive and not breathing, call 9-1-1 and begin CPR.

What is the shout-tap-shout technique?

The shout-tap-shout technique involves shouting at the person to see if they respond, and gently tapping their shoulder to check for any reaction. If they don’t respond, further action is needed.

What should you do if the person is unresponsive and not breathing?

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, begin compression-only CPR immediately. Call 9-1-1 and retrieve an AED and First Aid kit, or ask someone to do so.

How should you position the person before starting chest compressions?

Ensure the person is lying on their back on a firm, flat surface, such as the ground. If they are on a bed or couch, carefully move them to the floor.

How should you position yourself for effective chest compressions?

Kneel beside the person with your knees spread shoulder-width apart. Place the heel of one hand in the center of their chest, and your other hand on top, interlacing your fingers. Position your body so that your shoulders are directly over your hands, and lock your elbows to keep your arms straight.

How deep and fast should chest compressions be?

Chest compressions should be at least 2 inches deep and delivered at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, about one every half second.

What should you do after each chest compression?

After each compression, allow the chest to return to its normal position, ensuring full recoil of the chest before the next compression.

When should you stop performing chest compressions?

Continue chest compressions until one of the following occurs: the person shows signs of life, an AED is ready, a trained responder arrives to take over, EMS personnel arrive, you are too tired to continue, or the scene becomes unsafe.

Where can you learn full CPR and AED usage?

You can learn full CPR and AED usage by taking a course from the American Red Cross. Visit redcross.org for more information.