How To Perform CPR: A Step By Step Guide | Resuscitation CPR First Aid Training

Summary

This comprehensive CPR training guide covers the life-saving process for adults, children, and babies, focusing on the key actions required during a cardiac arrest emergency. It details the primary survey, recognition of breathing, and the essential steps of chest compressions and rescue breaths. The script highlights the importance of a steady rhythm (100-120 compressions per minute) and the correct depth (5-6 cm for adults, 3-4 cm for babies). It emphasizes the chain of survival, including early recognition, CPR, AED use, and post-resuscitation care, alongside tips for handling challenges like vomit or broken ribs.

Takeaways

• 😀 CPR involves 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths to maintain circulation and oxygenate the blood in a person experiencing cardiac arrest.
• 😀 Chest compressions should be around 5-6 cm deep, with the heel of the hand placed in the center of the chest, aligned with the casualty's breastbone.
• 😀 The goal is to maintain a compression rate of 100-120 per minute, or about two compressions per second.
• 😀 If rescue breaths are needed, perform a head tilt-chin lift, pinch the nose, and ensure a good seal before delivering two breaths.
• 😀 If rescue breaths are difficult due to bodily fluids like vomit or blood, use a pocket mask or skip them until one is available.
• 😀 The chain of survival includes early recognition and calling for help, early CPR, early defibrillation with an AED, and early post-resuscitation care.
• 😀 For a child (1-18 years), the process begins with 5 initial rescue breaths, followed by 30 compressions and 2 breaths, aiming for 4-5 cm compression depth.
• 😀 Baby CPR (under 1 year) starts with 5 rescue breaths, followed by 30 compressions using two fingers, aiming for a depth of 3-4 cm.
• 😀 If a casualty vomits during CPR, roll them to their side to clear the airway, then continue CPR after checking for signs of life.
• 😀 A rib fracture or cartilage cracking may occur during compressions, but this should not deter you from continuing CPR, as breathing is the priority.

Q & A

What is the purpose of CPR?

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is performed to keep blood flowing to vital organs when the heart stops, ensuring that oxygen reaches the body until medical help arrives.

What is the correct depth for chest compressions during CPR?

The correct depth for chest compressions during CPR is about 5 to 6 centimeters (2 to 2.4 inches).

What should be the ratio of compressions to breaths during adult CPR?

The ratio of compressions to breaths during adult CPR is 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths.

How should you position your hands during CPR compressions?

Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, on the breastbone, and use the other hand to interlock fingers. Keep your arms straight and your shoulders directly above your hands to maintain proper pressure.

What should you do if a casualty vomits during CPR?

If a casualty vomits during CPR, quickly roll them onto their side to prevent airway blockage, clear any vomit from the mouth, and then resume CPR if necessary.

When should you stop performing CPR?

You should stop CPR if the casualty shows signs of life, if a medical professional tells you to stop, or if you are completely exhausted and can no longer continue.

Why is using a pocket mask advised during CPR?

A pocket mask is recommended when performing CPR if the casualty has bodily fluids around their mouth, as it helps maintain a good seal and reduces the risk of exposure to those fluids.

What is the chain of survival?

The chain of survival consists of four links: early recognition and call for help, early CPR, early use of an AED (automated external defibrillator), and early post-resuscitation care.

How does CPR for children differ from adult CPR?

In child CPR, you give five initial rescue breaths, use one hand for chest compressions, and aim for a compression depth of 4 to 5 centimeters. The compressions and breaths continue in cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.

What is the initial action when performing CPR on a baby?

When performing CPR on a baby, start with five initial rescue breaths. If the baby does not respond, proceed with 30 compressions using two fingers, aiming for a compression depth of about 3 to 4 centimeters, followed by 2 rescue breaths.