Proper CPR Techniques
Imagine you’re in a situation where someone suddenly collapses, unconscious and not breathing. It’s a terrifying scenario, but knowing the proper CPR techniques can make you the hero in such a crisis. CPR is a vital skill that everyone should learn, as it can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest. In this blog, we’ll delve into the step-by-step guide to performing CPR correctly, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to act decisively when it matters most.
Understanding CPR Techniques
Proper CPR techniques is a life-saving technique used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It involves chest compressions to manually pump blood through the heart and rescue breaths to provide oxygen to the lungs.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
- Ensure the safety of yourself, bystanders, and the victim.
- Check the victim for responsiveness by asking them general questions
Step 2: Call for Help
- If the victim is unresponsive, immediately call emergency services (911 or your local emergency number).
- If there’s someone nearby, ask them to call while you start CPR.
Step 3: Check for Breathing
- Tilt the victim’s head back gently, and look, listen, and feel for breathing.
- If the victim is not breathing normally, proceed with CPR.
Step 4: Perform Chest Compressions
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- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest, between the nipples.
- Place the other hand on top, interlocking your fingers.
- Position yourself directly over the victim’s chest and lock your elbows.
- Push down firmly, allowing the chest to compress at least 2 inches (5 centimeters).
- Perform compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute, allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
Step 5: Deliver Rescue Breaths
- After 30 compressions, open the victim’s airway by tilting their head back and lifting the chin.
- Pinch the victim’s nose closed with two fingers.
- Create a seal over the victim’s mouth with your mouth and give two rescue breaths, each lasting about one second.
- Watch for the chest to rise with each breath.
Step 6: Continue CPR
- Alternate between 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths.
- Continue CPR until emergency medical help arrives or the victim shows signs of life.
Learning the proper technique for CPR is an invaluable skill that can save lives. By following these step-by-step guidelines, you can confidently respond to emergencies and provide immediate assistance to those in need. Consider taking a CPR training course to gain hands-on experience and further enhance your proficiency. Remember, in a crisis, every second counts, and your swift action could be the difference between life and death. Together, let’s empower ourselves and our communities to be prepared for any emergency situation.
CPR / AED / FIRST AID TRAINING
What is covered in the Firefighter Safe CPR / AED / First Aid Training?
CPR, AED, and Basic First Aid combination training, teaches students comprehensive knowledge and skills that build the confidence to respond to emergencies. This first aid, AED, and CPR certification course option is an excellent choice for both the community and workplace setting, and conforms to the 2015 AHA Guidelines Update for CPR and ECC, and the 2015 AHA and ARC Guidelines Update for First Aid.
*** Individual CPR / AED and First Aid training is available once per month at our community class ***