CPR
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a combination of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest compressions, to deliver oxygen and artificial blood circulation to a person, in cardiac arrest. It can be life-saving first aid.
A ‘heart attack’ occurs when the heart is deprived of oxygen. A heart attack can ‘stop’ the heart and interrupt its rhythm and ability to pump. When the heart stops pumping, it is known as cardiac arrest.
There is no heart beat because the heart is not working. When the blood then stops circulating, the brain is starved of oxygen, and the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing. Without treatment this person will die.
Here you will find more on CPR Training Online and CPR Recertification
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases the person’s chances of survival if started soon after the heart has stopped beating.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation can be life-saving First Aid
When no assisted breathing and chest compressions are performed, it only takes 3 to 4 minutes for the person to become brain dead. By performing CPR, you provide the oxygen and circulate the blood, so that the brain can stay alive while you wait for medical help. Resuscitation does not guarantee that the person will survive, but it does increase their chances of survival.
CPR the basic steps
CPR is most successful when administered as soon as possible after the incident. It should only be performed when there is no sign of life, that is, when the person is unconscious, unresponsive, not breathing normally and not moving.
These steps are only a guide and not a substitute for attending a proper Training Course.
The basic steps are
- Check for danger
- Look for a response
- Dial the emergency number and ask for an ambulance
- Check the airway
- Check breathing
- Use mouth to mouth
- Cardiac Compressions
The following pages provide specific information on Online CPR,
CPR for Infants and Defibrillation.
