Introduction to CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR is a vital emergency procedure designed to save lives in the event of cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating, preventing the circulation of blood to the brain and other crucial organs. CPR involves a sequence of actions that mimic the heart's pumping and the lungs' breathing, ensuring oxygen distribution throughout the body.
CPR is crucial to restart the heart's function and maintain blood flow to the brain until advanced medical interventions are available. While anyone can initiate CPR, it is strongly recommended that trained medical professionals perform it, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.
Calling 911 is the immediate priority in any accident, and checking for responsiveness is the next step to assess the person's condition.
CPR consists of two main components:
- Chest compressions
- Rescue breaths
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Chest Compressions:
Chest compressions are a crucial component of CPR and involve manually pressing down on the chest to simulate the pumping action of the heart. During cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating, leading to a lack of blood circulation in the body. Chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain, until a normal heart rhythm can be restored.
Here's how to perform effective chest compressions:
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- Place the victim on a flat, firm surface, lying on their back.
- Position the heel of one hand on the center of the victim's breastbone.
- Place the other hand on top, interlacing your fingers for a secure grip.
- Administer compressions using your body weight, applying quick, forceful pumps.
- Aim for a compression rate of 100-120 compressions per minute to ensure optimal blood circulation.
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Rescue Breathing
Rescue breathing is a life-saving technique used when a person's breathing has stopped or is insufficient to properly oxygenate their body. This technique involves delivering breaths to the victim to supply them with the essential oxygen they need to survive.
Follow these steps to perform rescue breathing correctly:
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- Ensure the victim's airway is open, employing appropriate maneuvers for suspected spine or neck injuries.
- Pinch the person's nose shut and cover their mouth with yours to create an airtight seal.
- Deliver a breath lasting about one second, causing the victim's chest to rise visibly.
- Allow the person to exhale naturally before repeating the process.
- Monitor the chest rise to ensure proper ventilation without overinflating the lungs.
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