What is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly referred to as CPR, is an emergency procedure that combines chest compressions with artificial ventilation. It is performed in an effort to manually preserve intact brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest.
CPR is crucial as a first aid technique, with the primary goal of maintaining circulation and breathing until professional medical help arrives or the person’s heart and breathing resume naturally. This intervention helps in delaying the onset of tissue death due to oxygen starvation.
Types of CPR
CPR techniques are categorized based on the skill level of the rescuer:
- Basic Life Support (BLS): Suitable for lay rescuers and healthcare providers, focusing on maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): Involves advanced interventions such as intubation, intravenous access, and drug administration, typically performed by healthcare professionals.
During CPR, rescuers perform the functions of the heart using their hands and simulate lung activity through rescue breaths.
When to Perform CPR
CPR should be initiated when the following conditions are observed:
- The individual is unresponsive and not breathing.
- No detectable pulse is present.
- Sudden cardiac arrest circumstances, such as drowning, electric shock, or heart attack, are evident.
The Importance of CPR Training
Learning CPR is an invaluable skill. Regular training can significantly enhance your ability to respond effectively in an emergency, potentially saving lives. Through CPR training, you increase the likelihood of preserving life and brain function in critical situations.
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