Being able to provide immediate assistance during emergencies like cardiac arrests or drowning incidents can make all the difference between life and death. In this article, we will learn about CPR and the basic steps to follow if you need to perform it.
What is CPR Full Form?
The full form of CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is a life-saving technique used in emergencies to revive individuals whose hearts or breathing have stopped. The purpose of CPR is to maintain blood flow and oxygen supply to the vital organs until professional medical help arrives.
Types of CPR
- Traditional/Conventional CPR: This method combines chest compressions with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. It involves compressing the chest at least 5 cm deep while providing rescue breaths in a specific ratio.
- Hands-only or Compression-only CPR: This type focuses solely on chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. It is recommended for individuals who may be uncomfortable giving rescue breaths or are untrained in providing them.
- Paediatric CPR: Specifically designed for infants and young children, paediatric CPR involves adjusting the compression depth and ratio according to age and size.
Basic Steps to Perform CPR
- Check for responsiveness: Tap the person's shoulder gently and ask if they are okay.
- Call for help: Dial emergency services immediately or ask someone nearby to call.
- Open airways: Tilt the head back gently while lifting the chin.
- Check for breathing: Look, listen, and feel for signs of breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
- Start chest compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the centre of the chest and interlock the other hand on top. Deliver compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute.
- Provide rescue breaths (if trained): Pinch the person's nose, create a seal over their mouth, and give two rescue breaths.
- Continue cycles: Repeat the process until help arrives or there are signs of life.
Precautions to Follow When Performing CPR
- Ensure scene safety: Assess the environment for any potential hazards before initiating CPR.
- Use protective barriers: Whenever possible, use gloves, masks, or pocket masks to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
- Proper hand placement: Maintain proper hand placement while giving chest compressions to avoid injury or damage to internal organs.
- Avoid excessive force: Apply enough pressure during compressions without using excessive force that may cause harm.
- Avoid interruptions: Minimise interruptions between compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood flow and oxygenation.
- Communicate handoffs effectively: If someone takes over CPR from you, clearly communicate vital information about what has been done so far.
Job Roles That Require CPR Expertise
While laymen can perform basic CPR in emergencies until medical help arrives, specialised cases require experts in this field. Here is a list of a few job roles that often require CPR certification:
- Doctors and Nurses
- Paramedics and EMTs
- Lifeguards and Swim Instructors
- Firefighters
- Police Officers
- Childcare Providers
- Fitness Trainers and Sports Coaches
- Security Personnel
- Flight Attendants
- Teachers and School Staff
Upskilling and Further Specialisation Opportunities
In addition to the basic CPR certification, certain professionals may benefit from upskilling and further specialisation to stay competitive in their careers:
- Healthcare Providers: Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training equips healthcare professionals with additional skills needed to respond to complex cardiac emergencies.
- Emergency Medical Technicians: Pursuing a paramedic course provides comprehensive knowledge of pre-hospital emergency care, including advanced resuscitation techniques.
- Paediatricians: Obtaining Paediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification enables paediatricians to handle specific life-threatening emergencies in children effectively.
- Anesthesiologists: Training in Basic Life Support for Anesthesiologists (BLS-A) focuses on resuscitation techniques tailored for patients under anaesthesia or conscious sedation.
- First Responders: Advanced training programmes like Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) or Wilderness First Responder Certification prepare first responders for unique emergencies encountered in their respective fields.
Saving Lives with CPR
Understanding the full form of CPR is not only about grasping its acronym but also about recognising its immense potential to save lives in critical situations. For expert guidance on career opportunities in healthcare and to explore upskilling options through reliable platforms, consider exploring WiZR.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to learn CPR?
The duration of CPR training varies depending on the type of course you choose. Basic courses usually last between 2 to 4 hours, while more comprehensive programmes can take up to 8 hours.
2. Can I perform CPR if I have no medical background?
Absolutely! Basic life support training for laymen is designed to teach individuals without medical backgrounds how to perform effective CPR and potentially save lives.
3. How do I maintain my CPR certification?
Most certifications are valid for two years. To maintain your certification status, you will need to attend refresher courses or recertification classes every two years.
4. What is the cost of obtaining a CPR certification?
The cost of obtaining a CPR certification can vary depending on the level of training required and the provider you choose. On average, it can range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 in India.
5. Can I perform CPR on a baby or child?
Yes, you can perform CPR on a baby or child using paediatric CPR techniques. It is important to learn the specific steps and differences for performing CPR on younger individuals.
