Introduction
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used in emergencies where a person has stopped breathing or their heart has stopped beating. Performing CPR quickly and correctly can double or triple the chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest, drowning, or choking.
This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to perform CPR, including key techniques for adults, children, and infants.
1. Understanding When to Perform CPR
CPR is necessary when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. It should be performed in cases such as:
- Sudden cardiac arrest (e.g., heart attack)
- Drowning
- Severe choking
- Drug overdose
- Electric shock
- Trauma leading to unresponsiveness
How to Identify Cardiac Arrest
Before beginning CPR, check for:
✔ Unresponsiveness – The person does not react when you tap their shoulder or call their name.
✔ No breathing or abnormal breathing – Look for chest movement and listen for breath sounds.
✔ No pulse (if trained to check) – If you are not trained to check a pulse, start CPR immediately if the person is not breathing.
2. How to Perform CPR on Adults and Teens (Aged 8 and Older)
Step 1: Call for Help
- Dial 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
- If someone is with you, ask them to get an automated external defibrillator (AED) while you begin CPR.
Step 2: Position the Person
- Lay them on their back on a firm, flat surface.
- Kneel beside their chest.
Step 3: Chest Compressions (Hands-Only CPR)
- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (just below the sternum).
- Put your other hand on top and interlock fingers.
- Keep your arms straight and use your upper body weight to push down hard and fast.
- Compress the chest at least 2 inches deep and allow it to rise completely between compressions.
- Perform compressions at a rate of 100–120 beats per minute (similar to the rhythm of the song “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees).
Step 4: Rescue Breaths (If Trained in CPR with Breaths)
- Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
- Pinch the person’s nose closed and give two rescue breaths, ensuring the chest rises with each breath.
- Continue with a cycle of 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths.
Step 5: Continue CPR Until Help Arrives
- Keep performing cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until:
- EMS personnel arrive and take over.
- The person starts breathing normally.
- An AED is available for use.
3. How to Perform CPR on Children (Ages 1-8 Years)
Step 1: Check for Responsiveness and Breathing
- Tap the child gently and ask if they are okay.
- If there is no response and no normal breathing, call 911 immediately.
Step 2: Begin Chest Compressions
- Place one hand on the center of the chest. If necessary, use two hands for larger children.
- Compress the chest about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
Step 3: Rescue Breaths (If Trained)
- Open the airway using the head tilt-chin lift method.
- Give two gentle breaths, watching for the chest to rise.
Step 4: Continue CPR
- Perform 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives.
- If an AED is available, use it immediately and follow the voice instructions.
4. How to Perform CPR on Infants (Under 1 Year Old)
Step 1: Check for Responsiveness
- Tap the infant gently on the foot or shoulder and check for breathing.
- If there is no response or no breathing, call 911 and begin CPR.
Step 2: Chest Compressions
- Place two fingers in the center of the chest (just below the nipple line).
- Compress the chest about 1.5 inches deep at 100-120 beats per minute.
Step 3: Rescue Breaths
- Open the airway using the gentle head tilt-chin lift technique.
- Cover the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth and give two gentle breaths (just enough to make the chest rise).
Step 4: Continue CPR
- Perform cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives.
- If an AED with infant pads is available, use it immediately.
5. The Role of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
An AED is a device that can restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of cardiac arrest. If available:
- Turn on the AED and follow the voice instructions.
- Attach the electrode pads to the person’s chest.
- If advised, stand clear and deliver a shock.
- Resume CPR immediately after the shock and continue until help arrives.
AEDs are safe to use on adults, children, and infants with appropriate pads.
6. Common CPR Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pushing hard enough: Chest compressions must be deep enough to be effective.
- Not pushing fast enough: Maintain the correct rhythm (100-120 compressions per minute).
- Stopping CPR too soon: Continue until professional help arrives.
- Giving too much air in rescue breaths: Gentle breaths are enough for infants and children.
7. The Importance of CPR Training
Although anyone can perform hands-only CPR, formal training increases effectiveness. CPR certification is provided by:
- American Heart Association (AHA)
- Red Cross
- National Safety Council
Many organizations offer online and in-person CPR courses that include hands-on practice with manikins.
Conclusion
CPR is a lifesaving skill that can make the difference between life and death in emergencies. Whether performing hands-only CPR or incorporating rescue breaths, acting quickly increases survival chances significantly.
By learning proper techniques and taking a certified CPR course, you can be prepared to save lives whenever the need arises.