Overview
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a medical procedure that is performed on an individual who is unconscious and not breathing. It can restore the presence of oxygen-rich blood in the brain, staving off death and brain damage. CPR consists of both mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing and chest compressions to keep blood flowing to the brain and other organs.
Detailed Description
CPR should be performed in emergency situations like heart attack, near drowning, or other accidents where breathing and/or heart beat has stopped. It is most effective when performed immediately after cardiac arrest (ceased heart beat) and when trained medical personnel arrive within eight to 12 minutes. Death or brain damage is more likely after about eight minutes without oxygen.
CPR has three components: the ABCs. A is for airway; the person’s airway must be clear in order to perform CPR and restore breathing abilities. The airway is cleared by tilting the head and lifting the chin. B is for breathing; when you do CPR, you are in essence breathing for the individual by forcing air into his or her lungs. This process occurs via breathing into the person’s mouth at certain intervals and checking for signs of life. C is for circulation; chest compressions are performed if rescue breathing has not resulted in signs of life. Chest compressions are coordinated with rescue breathing at certain intervals.
It is advised that everyone, especially parents and teachers, be certified in CPR and automatic external defibrillator (AED) use. An AED is a computerized device used to treat cardiac arrhythmias. More and more locations – such as airports and ski resorts – are now becoming equipped with these devices. CPR training is often a series of classes (the American Heart Association class lasts six hours) where you practice on mannequins. Specific instructions vary depending on age and size of the individual.
Last updated: 08-Feb-07
