2.1 - Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Definition of CPR

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency aid that combines:
  • chest compressions; and
  • breathing into the victim’s mouth.
• Purpose: to restore the victim’s heartbeat and breathing.

Situations that Require CPR

Perform CPR if an individual:

• does not respond to stimulus;
• is not breathing; or
• has no heartbeat or pulse.

These conditions might be caused by:

• heart attack;
• electric shock;
• drowning; or
• lightning strike.

CPR Procedure for an Adult

• CPR is a simple procedure that does not require any equipment.
• Learn and perform the procedure correctly:
  • incorrect compression can fracture the victim’s ribs;
  • an incorrect mouth-to-mouth technique may prevent blown air from reaching the lungs.

1. Check the Victim’s Response

1. If a person suddenly collapses and becomes unconscious, approach the victim and ensure that the surroundings are safe.
2. Tap the victim’s shoulder and ask, “Are you OK?”
3. If there is no response, shout “Help”.
4. Ask someone nearby to call the 999 emergency helpline.

2. Open the Airway

1. Lay the victim with the chest facing upwards on a flat surface.
2. Tilt the victim’s head backwards and lift the chin to open the airway.
3. Check whether the victim is breathing:
   • listen for exhaled air from the mouth and nose; and
   • observe movement of the chest.

3. Perform Chest Compressions

1. If no pulse or breathing is detected, place the heel of one hand at the centre of the victim’s chest.
2. Keep the arms straight. Cover the first hand with the other hand and interlock the fingers.
3. Rise and lean slightly forwards with the shoulders vertically above the victim’s chest.
4. Press down about 5 cm but not more than 6 cm.
5. Release the compression without lifting the hands; allow the chest to return fully to its normal position.
6. Perform compressions at 100–120 compressions per minute.

Function: chest compressions help the circulation of blood in the victim’s body.

4. Give Mouth-to-mouth Resuscitation

1. If there is still no breathing, pinch the victim’s nose.
2. Blow air into the victim’s mouth for 1 second per breath.

Function: oxygenated air enters the trachea and reaches the lungs.

5. Repeat and Monitor

1. Repeat a cycle of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 mouth-to-mouth breaths.
2. Continue until:
   • the ambulance arrives; or
   • the victim regains consciousness.
3. If the victim is breathing but remains unconscious, position the victim’s body on the side.

Importance of CPR

CPR restores two essential body functions:

• Blood circulation
  • Chest compressions produce artificial blood circulation by pumping blood through the heart.
  • Blood continues to flow through the victim’s body, especially when a heart attack has stopped the heartbeat.
• Oxygen supply
  • Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation supplies oxygenated air to the lungs.
  • Oxygen is transported to the brain and the rest of the body.
  • Brain damage can occur if oxygen does not reach the brain for a certain period.

Correct and immediate CPR can therefore save the victim’s life before paramedics arrive.

If a rescuer is uncomfortable giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, chest compressions alone can also help to save the victim’s life.