CPR

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart stops beating. Immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest. It involves a combination of chest compressions and artificial ventilation (mouth-to-mouth breathing) to manually preserve brain function until further measures can be taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person experiencing cardiac arrest. Here are some key points about CPR:

1. Purpose: To maintain blood flow and oxygen supply to vital organs when the heart has ceased functioning.

2. Techniques:
     – Conventional CPR: For healthcare providers and those trained, it involves chest compressions combined with mouth-to-mouth breathing at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
     – Hands-Only CPR: Recommended for bystanders who witness an adult suddenly collapse. It involves compression-only CPR without mouth-to-mouth breaths.

3. Chain of Survival: CPR is a critical link in the Chain of Survival, which includes recognition of cardiac arrest, early CPR, rapid defibrillation, advanced resuscitation, and post-cardiac arrest care.

4. AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators): These devices can significantly increase a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. Deployment of AEDs should not be limited to trained individuals, as prompt defibrillation is crucial.

Remember, knowing CPR can make a difference in saving lives!