Step-by-Step Guide: Performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used when someone’s heart has stopped beating, or they are not breathing normally. CPR provides support for circulation and breathing until emergency medical services arrive. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to performing CPR.

Important Note: While this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for certified CPR training. Hands-on practice and expert instruction are essential for learning and performing CPR effectively. Please enroll in a certified CPR course to gain the necessary skills.

Step-by-Step CPR Guide

1. Assess the Situation and Ensure Safety

• Before approaching the person, ensure the scene is safe for you and the victim. Remove any immediate dangers, such as fire or exposed electrical wires.

2. Check for Responsiveness

• Gently tap or shake the person’s shoulder.
• Shout loudly, “Are you okay?” or “Hey! Hey!”
• Observe for any response, such as movement, opening eyes, or speaking.

3. Activate Emergency Response System

• If the person is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping, immediately call or have someone else call the local emergency number (911 in Canada).
• Provide the dispatcher with the location, the nature of the emergency, and the number of victims.
• If you are alone and have a mobile phone, call 911 first, or as soon as possible, and then begin CPR.

4. Check for Breathing

• After ensuring unresponsiveness, check for normal breathing.
• Look for chest rise and fall for no more than 10 seconds.
• If the person is not breathing or only gasping (i.e., not breathing normally), begin CPR.

5. Perform CPR

• Position the Person:

  • Carefully place the person on their back on a firm, flat surface.

• Hand Placement for Chest Compressions:

  • Kneel beside the person’s chest.
  • Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest.
  • Place the heel of your other hand on top of the first hand.
  • Interlock your fingers.

• Body Position:

  • Position your body directly above your hands.
  • Keep your arms straight.

• Chest Compressions:

  • Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
  • Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
  • Compress to a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm) for adults.

• Rescue Breaths (If Trained and Willing):

  • After 30 chest compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
  • Open the airway using the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver (unless a spinal injury is suspected).
    • Place one hand on the person’s forehead and gently tilt their head back.
    • Place the fingers of your other hand under the bony part of the chin and lift it up.
  • Pinch the person’s nose closed.
  • Take a normal breath and seal your mouth over the person’s mouth.
  • Give 1 breath, lasting about 1 second, and watch for chest rise.
  • Give a second breath, watching for chest rise.

• CPR Cycles:

  • Continue cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until:
    • Emergency medical services arrive and take over.
    • The person shows signs of life, such as breathing.
    • You are too exhausted to continue.

6. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) If Available

• If an AED is available, retrieve it and use it as soon as possible.
• Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts.
• Apply the AED pads to the person’s bare chest as indicated by the diagrams on the pads.
• Ensure no one is touching the person while the AED is analyzing the heart rhythm or delivering a shock.
• If the AED advises a shock, deliver it.
• Immediately resume CPR after the shock (or if no shock is advised).
• Continue to follow the AED’s prompts.

Important Considerations

• CPR Quality: Effective CPR is crucial. Focus on proper hand placement, compression rate, depth, and allowing for complete chest recoil.
• Minimizing Interruptions: Try to minimize interruptions in chest compressions.
• Teamwork: If there are other responders, work together to perform tasks efficiently.
• Updates: CPR guidelines are updated periodically. Stay current with the latest recommendations.

Disclaimer:

This information is intended for educational purposes and provides a general overview of CPR. It is not a substitute for certified CPR training. Hands-on practice with certified instructors is essential for developing the skills and confidence to perform CPR effectively.