When the heart stops pumping blood to organs such as the brain, death can occur within minutes. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be performed to keep blood circulating until a person's heart function can be restored. Certain classes, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support, teach CPR along with advanced lifesaving techniques for medical professionals. However, basic CPR classes are intended for medical workers and laypersons, and can be lifesaving.
Facts
According to the University of Michigan Health Systems, three-fourths of all cardiac arrests happen at home. Knowing CPR can help the victim until emergency medical technicians arrive. CPR consists of chest compressions and rescue breathing. The chest compressions help pump the blood throughout the body, while rescue breathing provides oxygen to lungs. Both components of CPR should be performed together to provide the most benefits.
Certification
Formal CPR classes and certification is offered through various organizations. The guidelines for CPR classes were developed by the American Heart Association and American Red Cross. Classes can be found through local chapters of both organizations. Basic CPR classes are also usually taught at hospitals and community centers. Certification classes can be completed in one day. Students must pass an exam and demonstrate proper CPR technique to become certified. Certification is valid for two years and can be renewed by completing a re-certification class.
Indications
Various conditions can lead to cardiac arrest in adults and children. According to the American Heart Association, people who develop certain cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, may go into cardiac arrest. In adults, cardiac arrest is primarily caused by heart disease. However, in children, the main causes of cardiac arrest are sudden infant death syndrome, poisoning, trauma, near-drowning and breathing problems, such as choking, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Procedure
Open the airway, by gently tilting the chin upward. Place your ear next to the victim's mouth and listen for breathing, while you watch the chest for movement. If the victim is not breathing, place your mouth over his mouth and blow two breaths into his mouth. Watch to see if his chest rises. Start by placing your hands in the center of the victim's chest. Compress the chest about 2 inches deep. According to the University of Michigan Health Systems, perform 30 compressions and then give 2 rescue breaths. Repeat the cycle until the person starts breathing on his own or medical help arrives.
Considerations
Guidelines for basic CPR are slightly different for children. The rate of compressions to rescue breaths in children under age eight is five compressions for every one breath. According to Harvard Medical School, the chest should be compressed at a rate of about 120 compressions a minute. If you are doing CPR on an infant, place your mouth over the baby's mouth and nose when doing rescue breathing.
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