How to Perform Hands-Only CPR

Summary

This video script educates viewers on compression-only CPR, a vital technique for cardiac emergencies. It emphasizes checking for safety, responsiveness, and breathing before initiating CPR. The script outlines the correct hand placement, body positioning, and compression depth and rate. It advises calling 911, using an AED, and continuing CPR until help arrives or the scene becomes unsafe. The video also encourages viewers to learn full CPR and AED use through the American Red Cross.

Takeaways

• 🚑 **Compression-Only CPR**: A simple technique that can be learned quickly and may help save a life during a cardiac emergency.
• 🔍 **Check the Scene**: Ensure the environment is safe before approaching a collapsed person.
• 🔊 **Shout, Tap, Shout**: Use this technique to check if the person is responsive and to check for breathing or other life-threatening conditions.
• 📞 **Call for Help**: If a life-threatening emergency is identified, call 911 and get an AED and first aid kit.
• 🛑 **Unresponsive and Not Breathing**: Begin compression-only CPR if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
• 🛌 **Position the Person**: Ensure the person is on their back on a firm, flat surface before starting CPR.
• 🤲 **Hand Placement**: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest with the other hand on top, interlocking fingers.
• 💪 **Compression Technique**: Use body weight to compress the chest at least two inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• 🔁 **Continue Compressions**: Keep performing CPR until help arrives or the person shows signs of life, an AED is ready, or you are too tired to continue.
• 🏥 **Further Training**: For full CPR and AED use, consider taking an American Red Cross CPR/AED course.

Q & A

What is compression-only CPR and why is it important?

Compression-only CPR is a simple technique that involves chest compressions without rescue breaths. It's important because it can be learned quickly, is easy to remember, and can help save a life in a cardiac emergency.

What should you do first when you encounter someone who has collapsed?

First, check the scene for safety, then use the shout, tap, shout technique to see if the person responds to you. Simultaneously, check for breathing, life-threatening bleeding, or another life-threatening condition.

When should you call 911 and get an AED or first aid kit?

You should call 911 and get an AED or first aid kit if you determine the person is experiencing a life-threatening emergency and they are unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping.

How should the person be positioned for compression-only CPR?

The person should be on their back on a firm, flat surface, such as the ground. If they are on a bed or couch, they should be carefully moved to the floor.

What is the correct hand position for starting chest compressions?

Place the heel of one hand in the center of their chest, with your other hand on top, interlace your fingers, and ensure they're up off the chest.

How should you position your body to give effective chest compressions?

Position your body so that your shoulders are directly over your hands, with your knees near the person's body and about shoulder-width apart. Lock your elbows to keep your arms straight.

What is the recommended rate and depth for chest compressions?

Compress the chest to a depth of at least two inches, at a rate of between 100 and 120 compressions per minute, or about one every half second.

What should you do after each compression during CPR?

After each compression, let the chest return to its normal position before starting the next compression.

How long should you continue giving chest compressions?

Continue giving compressions until you notice an obvious sign of life, an AED is ready, a trained responder is available, EMS personnel arrive, you are alone and too tired to continue, or the scene becomes unsafe.

Where can you learn more about full CPR and using an AED?

You can learn more about full CPR and using an AED by taking an American Red Cross CPR AED course. More information can be found on redcross.org.

What is the purpose of the American Red Cross CPR AED course?

The American Red Cross CPR AED course aims to teach individuals how to perform full CPR and use an AED, providing them with the skills necessary to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies.