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A Lifesaving Skill: CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, more commonly known as CPR, is an important life skill to possess. Understanding CPR at even the most pedestrian level can be lifesaving for a loved one or stranger during a cardiac or breathing emergency. Many reputable organizations offer in-person and online CPR training and certification courses to help you feel secure in your skill set. Until you enroll in a class, use this step-by-step guide to kickstart your CPR training.
STEP 1: CHECK Check the scene for safety. If it is unsafe, remove yourself from scene immediately and call 911 for help. If it is safe to proceed, check the victim for consciousness by tapping their shoulder and shouting, “Are you okay?” STEP 2: CALL If the victim is unresponsive, alert a bystander to call 911 before performing chest compressions. Call 911 if you are alone with the victim first before administering compressions. STEP 3: CARE Care for the victim by following the CABD’s (Compression, Airway, Breathing, Defibrillation) of CPR. COMPRESSION: Immediately begin 30 chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute and a depth of at least two inches. Remember the following compression techniques: • Your hand position: Place one hand on top of the other and interlock fingers. The heel of your bottom hand goes directly on top of the victim’s sternum.
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Your body position: Shoulders should be directly over hands; keep elbows locked. Allow the victim’s chest to return to a normal position after each compression. To keep a steady speed, say, “One and two and three and four and five…” to yourself while giving compressions.
AIRWAY: After 30 compressions, open the victim’s airway with the head-tilt/chin-lift method and deliver two breaths. • Place one hand on the victim’s forehead and the other under their chin. • Gently push down on their forehead while lifting their chin to open their airway. BREATHING: Pinch the victim’s nose and deliver two breaths, lasting about one second each. Let the chest rise and fall before delivering the next breath. DEFIBRILLATION: Continue cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by two breaths until emergency medical services (EMS) or an automated external defibrillator (AED) arrives. Use an AED as soon as one becomes available to you. Note: This guide provides CPR techniques for an adult victim (age 9, or the start of puberty, and up). Please refer to the sources on the next page for compression techniques for children and infants.
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