Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR is a lifesaving technique employed when a person’s heartbeat or breathing has stopped. It begins with a volley of chest compressions and can even include the use of defibrillators.
According to the American Heart Association, untrained personnel must provide hands-only CPR. Chest compressions should not stop or at least go down 100 per minute. It is much better if paramedics and rescue personnel are called to the scene for assistance to reduce the risk of the victim.
The trained have more flexibility to what they can do for rescue. They can perform more advanced techniques such as mouth-to-mouth and even tilting the chin of the victim.
If you want to help people and patients more in the art of CPR, one can enroll in more advanced classes. CPR training is readily available and can be more expansive depending upon your needs. Learning the act of CPR can really save lives and improve your connection to people.
One of the perks of successful CPR would be keeping oxygenated blood to the brain and organs of the fallen. No matter how amateur a person may be in CPR, if it’s done right then the person can thank you later or until rescue arrives.
When chest-compression is not enough, defibrillators are the next best thing. Every paramedic is trained to use one and even normal citizens can get access to one. Take note that defibrillators can cause serious damage so proper training and taking care of it should be in place.
Good news is that all the intricacies surrounding CPR and the usage of shock paddles shall be discussed during training. It will include seminars and how-to’s, a lot of it.
CPR should not be the first and only option for those who want to help. There is the 911, paramedics, and hospital personnel. Even your family doctor can be on call to support. Do not take everything on alone; that’s why they are there to swoop in to save the day.
There are always support groups who can be of assistance. You can do your part by enrolling yourself in classes and sessions for CPR-related issues. It is better to know a lot of things than to limit yourself in what you know.
Be the person you are, don’t try too hard to be someone you’re not so that others may notice or give you credit.
The acronym C-A-B, or Compressions – Airway – Breathing, as stated by the American Heart Association, should always be followed when performing CPR. Compressions restore blood circulation; the airway provides gateway to oxygen; and breathing when oxygen access is usually cut-off due to injuries.
Defibrillators also work in the same manner; however it takes greater care to pull off and would usually take more finesse and skill to do. It is better to also call 911 for back-up since you do not have any assurance of the patient recovering from the incident.
CPR is more than just a life-saving technique, it is an art form in its own right.