CPR
Summary
In this page, you will learn what CPR means, the different steps that make up the procedure and how to perform it safely.
Definition
The scientific definition of CPR is 'Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation'. The word 'Cardiopulmonary' relates to the heart (cardio) and the lungs (pulmonary). 'Resuscitation' means to revive, especially from apparent death or a state of unconsciousness. So in a simpler form, The definition of CPR is to revive someone from apparent death or a state of unconsciousness by kick starting their heart and helping them breathe easier.
Actions Used
The actions that are taken during CPR consists of compressions and mouth to mouth. The compressions are done to kick start the heart in to beating in a proper rhythm. The 'mouth to mouth' is when someone breathes into mouth to give them more oxygen so their breathing becomes more steady. Although there has been a recent study that mouth to mouth is not vital to the CPR process.
CPR Process
There are 7 steps in the CPR process. A way to remember all 7 steps is by following the acronym DRS ABC (doctors A, B, C). Below are all of the steps to SAFELY perform CPR until the ambulance or paramedics arrive at the scene.
D- Check for DANGERBefore you perform and of the safety techniques, check for any hazardous items or situations that could put the patients, others and your own safety in danger. Remove these items from the scene immediately.
R- Check for RESPONSEAfter removing hazardous items from the scene, either squeeze the patients hand or rub your knuckles (in a closed fist) against their chest in an up and down movement. If the patient responds by squeezing your hand back or talking to you, just complete the 3rd step and do not complete any more of the actions. If they don't respond, continue doing all of the steps.
S- SEND for HelpSend someone to call 000 (view contacts page). DO NOT LEAVE THE PATIENT UNATTENDED IN CASE THEIR CONDITION CHANGES.
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A- Open AIRWAYS
Set the patient flat on their back and check the airway (the throat and mouth). If you can see the airway is blocked, then remove the blockage by using your hand. The patient will not be uncomfortable and will not have a gag reflex because they are not conscious. When doing this process, keep their head and neck supported, because then they will not suffer from pain in those area's when are conscious and will not get cramps.
B- Normal BREATHING?
Place your head on the patients chest and listen to their breathing. If the breathing is regular and at a good pace, place them in recovery position. If their breathing is slow, slightly wheezy or not breathing at all, commence CPR IMMEDIATELY!
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RECOVERY POSITION
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C- COMMENCE CPR
First locate the center of the chest and begin compressions with the heel of your hand, with your fingers slightly raised. Then place your other hand on top of the hand on the chest. If someone has drowned, give 2 rescue breaths and then begin compressions to the beat of this song. Do 30 compressions then 2 more rescue breaths. If normal breathing returns, set the patient into the recovery position. If breathing does not return, then continue CPR until the ambulance or paramedics arrive.