CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency procedure used to treat a person who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. Here are the steps for performing CPR:
- Call for emergency medical services (EMS): Before starting CPR, call for EMS and ask for an ambulance. If there is someone else nearby, ask them to make the call while you start CPR.
- Check for responsiveness: Shake the person gently and shout, “Are you okay?” If they do not respond, assume they are unconscious and proceed to the next step.
- Open the airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
- Check for breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing. If the person is not breathing or is only gasping for air, proceed to the next step.
- Begin chest compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest, between the nipples. Place the other hand on top of the first hand and interlock your fingers. Keep your elbows straight and use your upper body weight to push down on the chest. Perform 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute.
- Give rescue breaths: Tilt the person’s head back and pinch their nose closed. Take a normal breath and place your mouth over the person’s mouth, creating a seal. Blow into their mouth until you see their chest rise. Repeat this process two times.
- Continue CPR: Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths until the person shows signs of life or EMS personnel arrive.
Remember, CPR is a life-saving skill that can help sustain life until professional help arrives. It is important to take a CPR course to learn these steps in-depth and get hands-on training. You can do the training at Pulse CPR and First Aid School in Martinez / Augusta GA or by calling 706-901-7277.
