How to Perform CPR: A Comprehensive Guide by a First Aid Trainer

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used when someone’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. Immediate CPR can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival after cardiac arrest. As an experienced first aid trainer, I will guide you step-by-step on how to perform CPR correctly, discuss when it’s needed, and provide real-world examples of emergencies requiring CPR.

When Is CPR Necessary?

CPR is required in any situation where a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Common scenarios include:

1. Sudden Cardiac Arrest

• A person collapses without warning, often due to an electrical malfunction in the heart (ventricular fibrillation).
• Example: A coworker suddenly collapses at their desk and doesn’t respond when shaken or spoken to.

2. Near-Drowning

• A drowning victim may have stopped breathing due to water blocking their airway.
• Example: A child pulled unconscious from a swimming pool.

3. Choking Leading to Unconsciousness

• If a choking person passes out, their airway may still be blocked, requiring CPR.
• Example: A restaurant patron collapses after choking on food.

4. Drug Overdose or Poisoning

• Opioids and other depressants can slow or stop breathing.
• Example: An overdose victim found unresponsive with shallow or no breathing.

5. Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis)

• Extreme swelling can block airways, leading to cardiac arrest.
• Example: Someone stung by a bee with a known allergy loses consciousness.

6. Electrocution or Trauma

• Electric shocks or severe injuries can disrupt heart rhythm.
• Example: A construction worker electrocuted by faulty wiring.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing CPR

Step 1: Assess the Situation

• Check for responsiveness: Tap the person’s shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?”
• Call for help: If unresponsive, yell for someone to call 911 (or your local emergency number) and fetch an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available.

Step 2: Check for Breathing

• Look, listen, and feel for breathing for 5–10 seconds.
• If they are gasping or not breathing normally, start CPR immediately.

Step 3: Begin Chest Compressions

1. Position the person on their back on a firm surface.
2. Kneel beside them, place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (between the nipples).
3. Place your other hand on top and interlock fingers.
4. Push hard and fast:
   • Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm) for adults.
   • Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute (like the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees).
   • Allow full chest recoil between compressions.

Step 4: Give Rescue Breaths (If Trained)

• After 30 compressions, tilt the head back, lift the chin, and pinch the nose shut.
• Give 2 breaths (1 second each), watching for the chest to rise.
• If breaths don’t go in, reposition the head and try again.

Step 5: Continue CPR Until Help Arrives

• Keep alternating 30 compressions and 2 breaths.
• If an AED arrives, turn it on and follow voice prompts.
• Do not stop CPR unless:
  • The person starts breathing normally.
  • Professional rescuers take over.
  • You are too exhausted to continue.

Special Considerations

CPR for Infants & Children

• Infants (Under 1 year): Use two fingers for compressions (1.5 inches deep).
• Children (1–12 years): Use one or two hands, depending on size.
• Rescue breaths: Cover the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth.

Hands-Only CPR (For Untrained Rescuers)

• If unsure about rescue breaths, continuous chest compressions alone can still help.

AED Use

• Turn on the AED and follow voice instructions.
• Apply pads to bare chest (one on the upper right, one on the lower left).
• Stand clear while the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.

Why CPR Matters

• Every minute without CPR reduces survival chances by 7–10%.
• Bystander CPR doubles survival rates from cardiac arrest.
• Brain damage can start within 4–6 minutes without oxygen.

Final Thoughts

Learning CPR is one of the most valuable skills you can have. Whether at home, work, or in public, you could be the difference between life and death. Practice regularly, stay calm, and remember: Push hard, push fast, and don’t stop until help arrives.