Simple steps on how to perform CPR
According to the NHS, at least 70% of British citizens do not know how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, which is an emergency procedure that can be learned and performed by just about anyone. CPR administered immediately or very soon following the cessation of normal breathing has saved countless lives; the lack of it has directly resulted in serious problems or death.
Ideally every teen and adult should take a course in CPR with a certified instructor, contact us today to organise your training, call +44(0)28 9122 8101. However, the actual procedure is quite simple and if nothing else you should know the steps in the correct order – they’re not hard to remember.
CPR: When and How?
If someone is not breathing after any sort of trauma such as an accident or heart attack, first call 999 if possible, then immediately start CPR. For hands-only CPR:
With the person lying prone on his or her back, make sure the air passage is clear, kneel next to the shoulders, then place the heel of one hand on the breastbone between the nipples, place the other hand over it and lace your fingers. With your arms straight and shoulders aligned over your hands, press down hard – try to compress the chest about 5-6cm, or two inches, using your body weight, not just the hands and arms. Do this procedure steadily, aiming for at least 100 times a minute, and allowing the chest to rise completely after each compression.keep on doing this until help arrives – or as long as you possibly can, checking frequently to see if the victim is breathing on his own
Mouth To Mouth
If you can, also administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. For victims younger than about 9 years this is by far the best approach, but for adults it can be combined with chest compression.
Tilt the victim’s head back slightly so the air passage is fully open and extended; pinch the nostrils tightly and cover his/her mouth with yours, then blow forcefully and steadily until you see the chest rise. Take your mouth away and wait for the chest to sink again before giving the next breath – each breath should take about a second. Do this two times, then immediately resume compression on the chest for another 30 pumps, and repeat the mouth-to-mouth procedure.
In the UK and in many other countries there will likely be other people nearby who can go for help and/or assist you in your CPR efforts. If you reach a medical assistance professional by phone you will probably get on-the-spot instructions, based on what you describe as the condition and symptoms of the victim. In any case, remain calm, follow these simple steps and quite possibly save a life.
