The Dos and Don'ts of Providing CPR During a Cardiac Arrest Emergency

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The Dos and Don'ts of Providing CPR During a
Cardiac Arrest Emergency
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Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a critical
lifesaving technique that can significantly
increase the chances of survival for someone
experiencing cardiac arrest. By performing CPR
correctly, you can maintain blood circulation and
ensure vital oxygen reaches the brain and other
organs until professional medical help arrives.
However, it is essential to know the dos and
don'ts of providing CPR to maximize its
effectiveness and prevent further harm. In this
article, we will explore the key guidelines to
follow when delivering CPR during a cardiac
arrest emergency.
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• Dos of Providing CPR
• Call for help Before initiating CPR, it is
  crucial to call emergency services or ask someone
  nearby to do so. Prompt medical assistance is
  vital for the patient's chances of survival.
• Check the surroundings Ensure that the immediate
  area is safe for both you and the victim. Remove
  any potential hazards, such as water, chemicals,
  or electrical sources, before beginning CPR.

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1. Perform chest compressions Start chest
   compressions by placing the heel of one hand on
   the center of the victim's chest, interlocking
   the other hand on top. Push hard and fast, aiming
   for a depth of about two inches. Maintain a
   compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per
   minute, allowing the chest to fully recoil
   between each compression.
2. Deliver rescue breaths After performing 30
   compressions, open the victim's airway by tilting
   their head back and lifting the chin. Pinch the
   victim's nose shut and create an airtight seal by
   placing your mouth over theirs. Deliver two
   rescue breaths, each lasting about one second,
   and observe for chest rise. If the chest does not
   rise, reposition the victim's head and try again.
3. Continue CPR until professional help arrives
   Maintain a consistent rhythm of 30 compressions
   followed by two rescue breaths. Do not interrupt
   CPR unless the victim shows signs of life, such
   as breathing or movement, or until a healthcare
   professional takes over.

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• Don'ts of Providing CPR
• Don't delay starting CPR Time is critical during
  a cardiac arrest emergency. Begin CPR as soon as
  possible, even if you are uncertain or untrained.
  Hands-only CPR (compressions without rescue
  breaths) is better than doing nothing until
  professional help arrives.
• Don't lean or apply inadequate pressure during
  compressions Ensure that your compressions are
  forceful enough to adequately pump blood through
  the body. Avoid leaning on the victim's chest
  between compressions as this prevents proper
  recoil, reducing the effectiveness of CPR.

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1. Don't forget to check for responsiveness Before
   initiating CPR, assess the victim's
   responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and
   asking loudly, "Are you okay?" If they do not
   respond and are not breathing normally, begin CPR
   immediately.
2. Don't stop CPR prematurely Only stop CPR when
   professional help arrives, the victim shows signs
   of life, or you become physically exhausted. Do
   not discontinue CPR based on the time elapsed
   since the arrest or the victim's age.
3. Don't ignore the importance of training While
   anyone can provide CPR in an emergency, it is
   highly recommended to receive proper training and
   certification. CPR training equips you with the
   necessary skills and knowledge to perform
   effective CPR, increasing the victim's chances of
   survival.

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Knowing the dos and don'ts of providing CPR
during a cardiac arrest emergency can make a
crucial difference in saving a life. By promptly
initiating CPR, performing effective chest
compressions and rescue breaths, and continuing
until professional help arrives, you can
significantly increase the chances of survival
for the victim.