How to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

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Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a critical life-saving skill used to revive someone who is in cardiac arrest. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Assess the Situation: Ensure the area is safe for both you and the victim. Check if the victim is conscious and breathing. If the victim is not breathing normally or is unconscious, begin CPR immediately.

1. Call for Help: If there is someone nearby, ask them to call emergency services through your local emergency number while you begin CPR. If you're alone, perform CPR for about 2 minutes before leaving the victim to call emergency services yourself.

1. Position the Victim: Lay the victim on their back on a firm surface. Ensure their airway is clear by tilting their head back slightly and lifting the chin.

1. Check for Breathing: Place your ear near the victim's mouth and nose and look for chest movement. Listen for breathing sounds. If the victim is not breathing normally, proceed with CPR.

1. Perform Chest Compressions:

• Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim's chest, between the nipples.

• Place the other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers.

• Position your shoulders directly above your hands.

• Press down hard and fast, aiming for a depth of about 2 inches (5 centimeters).

• Perform chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.Let the chest rise completely between compressions.

1. Open the Airway: After 30 compressions, tilt the victim's head back slightly and lift the chin to open the airway.

1. Give Rescue Breaths:

• Pinch the victim's nostrils closed with your fingers.

• Place your mouth over the victim's mouth, ensuring a good seal.

• Give two rescue breaths, each lasting about one second, and watch for the chest to rise. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again.

8. Continue CPR: Alternate between 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths. Continue CPR until:

• The victim shows signs of life, such as breathing normally.

• Emergency medical personnel arrive and take over.

• You are too exhausted to continue.

• An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is ready to use.

9. Use an AED (if available): If an AED is available, follow the prompts provided by the device. Apply the AED pads to the victim's chest as directed and follow the instructions for administering a shock if advised.

Remember, performing CPR can be physically demanding. If you're alone and need to call emergency services, try to do so quickly before starting CPR. If you're unsure about performing CPR, remember that even performing chest compressions alone can greatly increase the victim's chances of survival.

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