CPR is a lifesaving technique used in emergencies when a person’s heart stops beating. While CPR is crucial for restoring blood flow to vital organs, it can result in broken ribs due to the force required for chest compressions. Though rib fractures are a known risk, they are not an indication of ineffective CPR. In fact, broken ribs are often a sign that compressions are deep enough to help save a life. This article explores the connection between CPR and rib fractures, the risks involved, and how to minimize injury during this critical procedure.
Breaking Ribs During CPR
It is common for ribs to break when CPR is being performed. It doesn’t happen in all situations, but it is a normal occurrence that you should be prepared for. The vulnerability of the cardiac arrest victim should be considered before performing a CPR. For example, elderly patients, specifically those with osteoporosis, are more likely to suffer from a rib fracture than younger patients because their bones are more fragile. So if you find yourself hesitant to perform CPR because you are worried that you might break a rib, be prepared for other options. If you do happen to break a rib, you may quite possibly at the same time save a life.
What to do if you hear a bone crack while performing CPR?
If you are performing CPR and hear or feel a rib break, you should keep going. Of course, the victim’s chest will hurt when they wake up, but the one thing that matters is that they’re alive. So far, there are not many cases where the victim has complained over CPR being performed on them. They tend to understand what was at stake at the time. Rib fractures are considered a severe injury, but they can be treated later, whereas cardiac arrest is a life threatening emergency that requires immediate attention.
CPR is a lifesaving procedure that will continue to be helpful in the future even as the guidelines are altered and new methods are introduced. A little break on the ribs should not affect your desire to save lives.
Are All Patients at Risk for Broken Bones?
Yes, all patients are at risk for broken bones during CPR, especially ribs. The risk depends on several factors, such as the strength of the person performing CPR and the patient's physical condition. Men and those with more upper body strength are more likely to cause rib fractures. The depth of chest compressions (2.2.4 inches or 5-6cm) leads to broken bones in up to 30% of patients. Obese patients are less likely to experience fractures, while older adults or those with osteoporosis are at a higher risk due to fragile bones.
Does CPR cause different injuries in children compared to adults?
CPR causes fewer rib fractures in children. Their ribcages are more flexible, but excessive force can injure organs like the liver or spleen. CPR for infants and young children requires gentler compressions to prevent harm.
Is CPR recommended for elderly individuals with fragile bones?
CPR is recommended for elderly individuals with fragile bones if they show no signs of life. The benefits of restoring circulation outweigh the risk of rib fractures. Careful, appropriate compression force should be used.
What Does CPR Select Recommends to minimize the risk of rib fractures during CPR?
Rib fractures occur in about 30-40% of adult CPR cases. The risk increases with prolonged or high-force compressions, but rib fractures are a common, non-life-threatening side effect. To minimize rib fractures, ensure that chest compressions are performed with proper technique:
- Use the correct hand placement (center of the chest, just below the nipple line).
- Compress at a depth of 2.2.4 inches (5-6 cm) for adults, without going too deep.
- Allow for full recoil between compressions.
- Avoid excessive force.
Do broken ribs affect the success of CPR?
No. Broken ribs do not reduce CPR's success. The primary goal of CPR is to circulate blood to vital organs. Rib fractures are a known risk but do not affect the effectiveness of CPR.
What are the long-term effects of broken ribs caused by CPR?
In most cases, broken ribs from CPR heal over time with minimal long-term effects. However, if fractures are severe or multiple ribs are broken, complications such as pain, difficulty breathing, or lung injury may occur. These issues usually resolve with appropriate medical care.
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