What are the CPR Steps

The American Heart Association, a leading authority in CPR Certification, provides the CPR steps outlined in this guide. This comprehensive guide offers detailed instructions based on the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care, which are essential for acquiring CPR Certification. By following these guidelines, you can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies and potentially save lives.

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The basic CPR steps below are based on the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care:

1. Check the scene and the victim. Make sure it is safe to approach the victim and that there is no danger to you or others. Also, check to see if the victim is unresponsive.
2. Call 911. If the victim is unresponsive, call 911 before beginning CPR.
3. Check for breathing and open airway. Position the victim on their back on a firm surface and check the breathing for 10 seconds. If possible, tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
4. Begin CPR starting with chest compressions. Place your hands on the victim's chest, interlocking your fingers. Use your body weight to perform chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
5. After 30 chest compressions, give two breaths. Then, open the airway and provide rescue breath for about 1 second to make their chest rise.
6. Repeat the CPR cycle. Continue giving 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths.
7. Use AED if available. Turn on the machine, and attach the pads during CPR. An automated External Defibrillator can analyze abnormal heart rhythms and send an electrical shock to get the heart to return to its normal rhythm.
8. Put the victim in the recovery position.

 What are the 10 Steps in Performing CPR?

Performing CPR involves a series of steps to provide emergency life support to someone experiencing cardiac arrest. By following these ten basic steps, you can maximize the chances of restoring circulation and saving a person's life:

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Step 1. Scene safety

In any emergency, the first step that you should follow is to check if the scene is safe. Ask how many victims are there and how the accident could have happened. See if other bystanders can assist the victims. It's also important to check the scene for factors that could harm you, such as traffic or fire.

Step 2: Check for consciousness.

When the scene is safe to respond to, check if the victim is conscious or unconscious. Tap the victim's shoulder and ask, "Are you OK?" loudly. If protective gloves or other protective equipment is available, put it on before you check the victim.

Step 3. Call 911

If the victim is not responding, activate the emergency medical services by calling 911 or asking a bystander to call. If possible, ask a bystander to look for an AED machine. You can find AEDs in most offices and public buildings. If you are alone, call 911 first before performing CPR.

Step 4: Open the airway

Tilt the person's head back gently by placing one hand on the forehead and lifting the chin with your other hand. This helps ensure that the airway is clear and unobstructed for breathing.

Step 5: Check for pulse and breathing

Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no longer than 10 seconds. Watch for chest rise and fall, listen for breath sounds, and feel for any air movement on your cheek. If the person doesn't have a pulse and not breathing, it indicates a cardiac arrest, and CPR should be started immediately.

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Step 6: Begin chest compressions

To perform chest compressions:

• Position yourself by kneeling beside the person.
• Place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest, between the nipples.
• Place your other hand on top, interlocking your fingers. Keep your arms straight and position your shoulders directly over your hands.
• Push hard and fast, aiming for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression to allow blood to flow back into the heart.

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Step 7: Provide rescue breaths

After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths:

• Pinch the person's nose shut and cover their mouth with yours, forming an airtight seal.
• Give a breath lasting about one second, watching for the chest to rise as you deliver the breath.
• If their chest does not rise with the initial rescue breath, tilt their head again to open the airway before you give the 2nd breath.
• If the chest still doesn't rise, stop rescue breathing and do chest compressions only.

Step 8: Continue the CPR cycles of compressions and breaths

Alternate between 30 compressions and two breaths. Maintain a steady rhythm and avoid unnecessary interruptions. Continue performing CPR until EMS personnel arrive at the scene, or until the person shows signs of life, such as breathing, opening their eyes, or moving. If you become too exhausted to continue, you can hand over to another trained individual if available.

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Step 9: Use an automated external defibrillator (AED)

If an AED is available, follow the device's prompts and apply it as soon as possible. Turn on the AED and follow the visual or audio instructions provided. Attach the electrode pads to the person's bare chest and let the AED analyze the heart rhythm. If advised, deliver a shock, and immediately resume CPR.

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Look closely at the images on the pads. The device will tell you what to do, so it's essential to follow the prompts correctly. Deliver a shock if the AED determines one is needed. Do not touch the victim during the analysis or shock delivery. Say, "CLEAR" out loud, in a commanding voice.

Continue CPR starting with chest compressions, whether you had to give a shock or not.

Step 10: Put the victim in Recovery Position

To put the victim in recovery position, kneel on the side of the victim. Extend the arm closest to you at a right angle to their body, with their palm facing up. Take the other arm of the victim and fold it, so the back of the hand rests on the cheek nearest to you and hold it in place. Monitor the breathing until emergency medical services arrive to provide advanced life support.

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What are the 7 Steps in Performing CPR?

Step 1: Assess the scene for safety

Before initiating CPR, assess the scene to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Look for any potential hazards or dangers, such as fire or electrical hazards, and address them before proceeding.

Step 2: Check for responsiveness

Approach the person and gently tap their shoulder while asking loudly, "Are you okay?" Look for any signs of responsiveness, such as movement, moaning, or eye opening.

Step 3: Call 911

If the person is unresponsive, immediately call for emergency medical services (EMS) or ask someone nearby to call for help.

Step 4: Check for pulse and breathing

Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no longer than 10 seconds. Watch for chest rise and fall, listen for breath sounds, and feel for any air movement on your cheek. If the person doesn't have a pulse and not breathing, it indicates a cardiac arrest, and CPR should be started immediately.

Step 5: Begin chest compressions

To perform chest compressions, follow these steps:

• Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's chest, right between the nipples.
• Put your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers.
• Keep your arms straight and ensure your shoulders are directly over your hands.
• Push hard and fast, aiming for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression, allowing the heart to refill with blood.

Remember to maintain proper hand and arm position, apply enough pressure, and maintain the recommended compression rate. These steps ensure effective chest compressions during CPR.

Step 6: Provide rescue breaths

After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths.

• Pinch the person's nose shut and cover their mouth with your mouth, creating a tight seal to ensure air does not escape.
• Deliver a breath lasting about one second, watching for the chest to rise as you provide the breath.
• If the chest does not rise with the initial rescue breath, tilt the person's head again to ensure the airway is properly open before giving the second breath.
• If the chest still does not rise after the second breath, discontinue rescue breathing and focus solely on chest compressions.

Step 7: Continue cycles of compressions and breaths

Continue alternating between 30 compressions and two breaths. Maintain a steady rhythm and avoid unnecessary interruptions. Continue performing CPR until EMS personnel arrive at the scene, or until the person shows signs of life, such as breathing, opening their eyes, or moving.

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What are the 5 Steps in Performing CPR?

The American Heart Association (AHA) and many other organizations have simplified the steps for performing CPR into a 5-step process. Here are the revised 5 steps in performing CPR:

Step 1: Check for responsiveness

Approach the person and gently tap their shoulder while asking loudly, "Are you okay?" Look for any signs of responsiveness, such as movement, moaning, or eye opening. If there is no response, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Call 911

If the victim is not responding, activate the emergency medical services by calling 911. If there are bystanders nearby, ask someone to call for help while you begin CPR.

Step 3: Chest compressions

To perform chest compressions, follow these steps:

• Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's chest, right between the nipples.
• Put your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers.
• Keep your arms straight and ensure your shoulders are directly over your hands.
• Push hard and fast, aiming for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
• Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression, allowing the heart to refill with blood.

Remember to maintain proper hand and arm position, apply enough pressure, and maintain the recommended compression rate. These steps ensure effective chest compressions during CPR.

Step 4: Provide rescue breaths

After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths.

• Pinch the person's nose shut and cover their mouth with your mouth, creating a tight seal to ensure air does not escape.
• Deliver a breath lasting about one second, watching for the chest to rise as you provide the breath.
• If the chest does not rise with the initial rescue breath, tilt the person's head again to ensure the airway is properly open before giving the second breath.
• If the chest still does not rise after the second breath, discontinue rescue breathing and focus solely on chest compressions.

Step 5: Continue cycles of compressions and breaths

Continue alternating between 30 compressions and two breaths. Maintain a steady rhythm and avoid unnecessary interruptions. Continue performing CPR until EMS personnel arrive at the scene, or until the person shows signs of life, such as breathing, opening their eyes, or moving. It's important to maintain proper hand positioning for effective CPR.

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What are the 3 Steps in Performing CPR?

In the most recent CPR guidelines, the American Heart Association (AHA) has introduced a simplified approach to CPR called "Hands-Only CPR," which involves 3 basic CPR steps.

Here are the 3 steps in performing Hands-Only CPR:

Step 1: Check for responsiveness

Approach the person and gently tap their shoulder while asking loudly, "Are you okay?" Look for any signs of responsiveness, such as movement, moaning, or eye opening.

Step 2: Call 911

If the person is unresponsive, immediately call for emergency medical services (EMS) or ask someone nearby to call for help. In many places, the emergency number is 911. It is important to activate the emergency response system before starting CPR.

Step 3: Begin Chest Compressions

• Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's chest, between the nipples.
• Place your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking the fingers.
• Keep your arms straight and position your shoulders directly over your hands.
• Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, same with the beat of the song "Stayin' Alive" by BeeGees.
• Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression.
• Continue performing uninterrupted chest compressions until EMS personnel arrive or until the person shows signs of life.

Hands-Only CPR focuses solely on chest compressions and does not include rescue breaths. It is designed to simplify the process and encourage more people to perform CPR when needed. However, it's important to note that standard CPR with rescue breaths is still recommended for certain cases, such as for infants and children, drowning victims, or situations where the cause of cardiac arrest is known to be respiratory-related.

It's always recommended to receive proper CPR training and certification to ensure you're prepared to respond effectively in an emergency and to learn the appropriate techniques based on the victim's age and circumstances.

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What modifications should be made to CPR for a pregnant person?

CPR for a pregnant person follows the same basic steps as for adults, but there are some modifications to consider due to the presence of the uterus:

• Chest Compressions: Chest compressions should be performed slightly higher, just above the sternum, to account for the upward displacement of the uterus.
• Airway Management: Tilt the head back without lifting the chin to maintain an open airway. Ensure there are no obstructions.
• Rescue Breaths: Provide rescue breaths, covering the person's nose and mouth, ensuring a proper seal. Adjust the volume of air to be effective but not forceful.

It's important to note that modifications for a pregnant person in need of CPR should be made with a focus on maintaining blood flow and oxygenation for both the pregnant individual and the unborn child.

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What is CPR?

CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It is an emergency procedure performed to manually assist a person who is experiencing cardiac arrest or has stopped breathing. CPR involves a combination of chest compressions to maintain blood circulation and rescue breaths to provide oxygen to the lungs. The aim of CPR is to buy time and sustain the vital functions of the body until professional medical help arrives. It is a critical intervention that can help improve the chances of survival during a cardiac emergency. Proper training and certification in CPR are essential to ensure effective administration and maximize the potential for a positive outcome.

Why is CPR Important?

CPR, a crucial component of CPR Certification, maintains the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the victim's brain and vital organs until advanced treatment is available. There is usually enough oxygen to keep the vital organs alive, but it's only supported for a few minutes. After that, it will not circulate unless someone performs CPR Steps.

Mastering basic emergency first aid and CPR, as taught in CPR Certification, can double or triple a victim's chance of survival. Keeping the blood flow active allows for successful resuscitation. Although there is no guarantee that the victim will survive CPR, it does give them a chance when otherwise, there would have been none. Without CPR, it only takes a few minutes for the victim's brain to become injured due to a lack of oxygen.

How to identify and treat cardiac arrest and other potential causes of respiratory distress during CPR?

Healthcare providers and responders can identify and treat cardiac arrest and other potential causes of respiratory distress during CPR by determining the cause of the patient's symptoms. This should include checking the patient's pulse rate, assessing their level of consciousness, and listening for any abnormal breath sounds.

Additionally, healthcare providers in the hospital setting may use an electrocardiogram (ECG) or other devices to measure electrical activity in the heart and identify any cardiac arrhythmias or other signs of cardiac arrest. If the patient is unresponsive, they should be moved to a flat surface, and CPR should be started immediately. 

What are the 2 Types of CPR?

1. Standard CPR with rescue breaths - Involves chest compressions with rescue breaths at a ratio of 30:2 compressions to ventilation. Standard CPR can provide more oxygen to the body before the paramedics arrive. Healthcare providers and individuals with CPR training can only do it.
   Studies have shown that a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths is most effective, especially for children and infants who experience cardiac arrest due to hypoxia or severe lack of oxygen. In addition, other underlying causes of cardiac arrests, such as drowning, trauma, drug overdose, and other noncardiac causes, will benefit from breaths and compressions.
2. Hands-only CPR - Also known as compressions-only CPR, hands-only CPR involves calling for help and doing continuous and uninterrupted chest compressions in a rapid motion. Hands-only CPR can be performed by the general public or bystanders who witness an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. It can prevent a delay in getting the blood moving through the body.

When to use CPR on Adults, Children, and Infant?

CPR is a lifesaving intervention that should be administered when an individual of any age is unresponsive and not breathing or not breathing normally. Here are some specific circumstances when CPR may be necessary:

• Out of hospital cardiac emergency
• Choking
• Road traffic accident
• Near-drowning
• Suffocation
• Poisoning

• Drug overdose
• Alcohol overdose
• Smoke inhalation
• Electrocution
• Suspected sudden infant death syndrome

What is the ABC or CAB in CPR?

The ABCs in CPR are abbreviations for Airway, Breathing, and Compressions. It refers to the correct sequence of CPR. The ABC steps ensure that the victim receives proper CPR within the shortest time possible.

However, based on the latest guidelines of the American Heart Association, the correct order for CPR is now the C-A-B Steps or Compression, Airway, and Breathing. This is because cardiac arrest victims can go a minute or two without taking a breath. What cardiac arrest victims need is for that blood to get flowing again, which can be achieved through chest compressions.

If there is a suspected spinal injury, care should be taken to minimize movement of the head and neck. Jaw thrust without head tilt can be used to open the airway. Use a CPR board or similar device to maintain spinal alignment during chest compressions.

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How long is the CPR cycle?

2 minutes. For CPR to be effective, rescuers should perform five cycles in two minutes. Additionally, it's recommended that rescuers swap after two minutes and five cycles to prevent exhaustion and maintain effective compressions.

When Should CPR be stopped?

Once you begin CPR, do not stop except in one of these situations:

• The victim shows apparent signs of life, such as movement or breathing.
• An AED is available and ready to use.
• Another trained responder or EMS personnel takes over to provide advanced life support.
• You are too exhausted to continue.
• The scene becomes unsafe

What Each Step of CPR Does?

Each step of CPR serves a vital purpose. By following the correct CPR steps, you contribute to the overall effectiveness of CPR and maximize the chances of a positive outcome. Here's what each step does:

• Asking If the Person Is OK: By checking for responsiveness, you determine if the victim is conscious and able to respond. This step helps determine if immediate medical intervention, such as CPR, is required.
• Calling 911: Activating emergency medical services (EMS) by calling 911 is essential to ensure professional medical assistance arrives as soon as possible. Promptly calling for help increases the chances of a positive outcome.
• Chest Compressions: Chest compressions are the primary component of CPR. They help maintain blood circulation by manually pumping the heart. Compressions are critical in providing oxygenated blood to vital organs until advanced medical help arrives.
• Rescue Breathing: Rescue breaths deliver oxygen to the victim's lungs when they are unable to breathe on their own. These breaths help maintain adequate oxygenation and support the victim's respiratory function.
• Continue CPR until help arrives or signs of life return: Continuously performing CPR until professional help arrives or the victim shows signs of life is vital. This ongoing effort sustains circulation and oxygenation until advanced medical care can be provided.

What should be done after CPR is administered?

After the procedure of cpr cardiopulmonary resuscitation, it is crucial to continue monitoring the individual until professional help arrives. If the person starts breathing normally and shows signs of life, such as movement or responsiveness, you should place them in the recovery position. This position helps maintain an open airway and prevents potential complications. Continue to stay vigilant and provide any necessary information to emergency services when they arrive. Remember that the effectiveness of CPR doesn't guarantee full recovery, and professional medical assessment and care are essential.

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How do you transition from CPR to the arrival of emergency services?

As emergency services arrive, communication becomes key. Briefly and clearly provide the professionals with information about what happened, the actions taken during CPR, and the current condition of the individual. This handover ensures a seamless transition of care. Emergency medical personnel are trained to continue advanced life support measures, further assess the person's condition, and transport them to a medical facility if necessary. Cooperation and effective communication during this transition enhance the overall care and support the continuum of life-saving efforts.

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What are the signs that CPR is effective?

Several signs indicate the effectiveness of CPR:

• Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC): This is the restoration of a stable and consistent heart rhythm.
• Normal Breathing: If the person starts breathing normally on their own, it is a positive sign.
• Increased Responsiveness: Regaining consciousness or responsiveness is an indication that oxygen is reaching vital organs.
• Pulse Detection: Feeling a pulse or detecting a pulse on a monitor indicates circulation has been restored.
• Color Improvement: If the person's skin color improves from a bluish tint to a more normal hue, it suggests improved oxygenation.

It's important to note that even if these signs are observed, the person should still receive professional medical attention to assess and address any underlying issues.

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What are the potential risks or complications associated with performing CPR?

The potential risks or complications associated with performing CPR are numerous. The most common risks include broken ribs, a punctured lung, infection, and nerve damage. In extreme cases, a person administering CPR may suffer from overexertion due to the physical strain involved in performing compressions.

To minimize these risks, it is important to ensure that rescuers are properly trained in CPR and take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. Additionally, rescuers should wear protective gloves to reduce the risk of infection.

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What are the legal protections for someone performing CPR?

Legal protections for individuals performing CPR are commonly covered by Good Samaritan laws. These laws vary by jurisdiction but generally provide immunity from civil liability for those who voluntarily and in good faith provide emergency assistance, including CPR, to someone in need. The purpose of these laws is to encourage bystanders to take action without fear of legal consequences, recognizing that immediate intervention can be critical in life-threatening situations. Good Samaritan laws typically apply as long as the responder is not grossly negligent or doesn't act with malicious intent. It's essential for individuals to be familiar with the specific laws in their jurisdiction, as they can differ.

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Are there any situations where you should not perform CPR?

 In certain situations, the initiation of CPR may not be advisable or appropriate, despite its critical role in life-saving efforts. One crucial factor to consider is the presence of a valid Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order. A DNR order is a legal document that communicates an individual's explicit wishes regarding resuscitation in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Respecting the autonomy and decisions of the person involved is paramount, and if there is a legally recognized DNR order, healthcare providers and bystanders alike are obligated to honor that directive. Disregarding a valid DNR order not only violates ethical principles but may also lead to legal consequences.

Moreover, there are instances where attempting CPR becomes futile, such as when there are unmistakable signs of irreversible death. Detectable indicators like rigor mortis or advanced decomposition signify that the individual has passed away, and CPR would not yield any meaningful outcome. In these circumstances, it is crucial for responders to exercise judgment and refrain from initiating resuscitation efforts, recognizing the irreversibility of the situation.

Additionally, personal safety is a paramount consideration when deciding whether to perform CPR. If attempting resuscitation poses a significant risk to the well-being of the rescuer, such as in a hazardous environment or when there is a threat of violence, waiting for professional help or ensuring personal safety before initiating CPR becomes a prudent course of action. Balancing the urgency of the situation with the safety of both the rescuer and the victim is essential in making sound decisions during emergency scenarios.

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How can healthcare providers and responders work together to optimize the timing and sequencing of CPR steps in emergency situations?

Healthcare providers and responders can work together to optimize the timing and sequencing of CPR steps in emergency situations by following established guidelines and protocols. Rescuers should identify the type of emergency, determine the patient's condition, and assess their level of consciousness before administering CPR.

Responders should take turns providing chest compressions and rescue breaths according to established ratios, such as 30 compressions followed by two rescue breaths. Additionally, healthcare providers should regularly review their protocols and adjust them as necessary to ensure that they are providing the most effective care.

How can healthcare providers and laypersons ensure that they are properly trained to perform CPR and follow the correct steps?

Healthcare providers and laypersons can ensure that they are properly trained to perform CPR by taking a CPR Certification course. These courses provide detailed instructions on the techniques of CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). Additionally, both lay rescuers and healthcare providers should stay up-to-date on the latest guidelines for CPR and AED usage, as these can change over time. 

In addition to taking a CPR course, it is important for rescuers to practice their skills regularly. This can be done by participating in simulated scenarios with experts or by using a CPR mannequin. Practicing helps keep skills sharp and can help rescuers feel more confident when performing CPR in an emergency. It is also important that healthcare providers and laypersons familiarize themselves with the signs of cardiac arrest and how to recognize them. By being aware of these signs, rescuers can ensure that they are prepared to provide life-saving CPR if necessary.

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How often should CPR certification be renewed?

CPR certification is typically valid for a period of two years. After this time, individuals are encouraged to undergo CPR certification renewal to stay current with the latest guidelines, techniques, and any updates in resuscitation protocols. The renewal process often includes a refresher course that covers essential aspects of CPR, providing participants with the opportunity to reinforce their skills and knowledge. Keeping certifications up-to-date is essential for ensuring that individuals are equipped to respond effectively to emergencies and contribute to the overall safety of their communities. Regular renewal also aligns with evolving standards in emergency medical care.

 Sources:

• American Heart Association (AHA): The AHA provides comprehensive information on CPR techniques, guidelines, and modifications for different age groups and situations.
• Red Cross: The Red Cross offers CPR and first aid training programs. Their website includes resources and guidelines on performing CPR.
• International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR): ILCOR is a global organization that reviews and develops resuscitation guidelines. Their website may have information on the latest international standards.