CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation

 CPR is a life-saving technique used to restore breathing and circulation in someone who has experienced cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. It involves a series of chest compressions and rescue breaths that help circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body and keep vital organs functioning until professional medical help arrives.

CPR can be a crucial step in the chain of survival for someone experiencing a medical emergency. The American Heart Association reports that when administered immediately after cardiac arrest, CPR can double or even triple a person's chances of survival.

How do you perform CPR? Here are the basic steps:

1. Check for responsiveness: If you come across someone who appears to be unresponsive or unconscious, check for responsiveness by gently tapping their shoulders and calling their name. If they do not respond, proceed to step 2.
2. Call for help: Call emergency services immediately or have someone nearby call for you.
3. Open the airway: Tilt the person's head back gently with one hand and lift their chin with the other hand to open their airway.
4. Check for breathing: Listen for breathing sounds and look for chest movement for no more than 10 seconds. If the person is not breathing or only gasping, proceed to step 5.

5.     Begin chest compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's         chest and place the other hand on top. Push down on the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, about 2 inches deep for an adult and about 1.5 inches deep for a child. Allow the chest to recoil between compressions.

6.     Provide rescue breaths: After 30 compressions, tilt the person's head back again and lift their chin to open their airway. Pinch their nose closed and give two rescue breaths, watching for chest rise with each breath.

7.     Continue compressions and rescue breaths: Continue performing cycles of 30 compressions and     2 rescue breaths until emergency medical services arrive or the person regains consciousness.

 

It is important to note that CPR can be physically demanding and may cause injury, particularly to the chest or ribs. However, the potential risks are outweighed by the potential benefits of saving someone's life.

If you have not received formal CPR training, it is still better to attempt CPR than to do nothing at all. Remember to call for help immediately and follow the basic steps outlined above.

In conclusion

 CPR is a vital skill that can make a significant difference in a medical emergency. By understanding the basic steps of CPR and receiving formal training, you can be prepared to save a life.