Essential CPR Techniques: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide provides an in-depth look at the critical steps involved in performing CPR correctly to potentially save lives during emergencies.

Initial Safety and Response

Always ensure safety first. Never perform CPR unless absolutely necessary and only on a manikin for training unless it's a real emergency.

Assessing the Situation

If you find someone unconscious, start by ensuring the area is safe. Introduce yourself, and try to elicit a response by gently tapping their collarbone. If there is no response, it is time to check their breathing.

Checking for Breathing

Perform the head tilt and chin lift manoeuvre to clear the airway. Place one hand on the forehead and the other under the chin, then tilt their head back. This helps pull the tongue away from the back of the throat, which can often obstruct the airway. Next, put your ear close to their mouth and look, listen, and feel for breathing signs for up to 10 seconds.

Immediate Actions if Breathing is Absent

If the person is not breathing, immediate help is crucial. If alone, leave them to get help. If not, send someone else to call for help. Continue as though help has been sought.

Applying Chest Compressions

Interlock your hands, place the heel of your bottom hand in the centre of their chest, keep your elbows straight, and shoulders directly above your hands. Push down 5 to 6 centimetres at a rate of about 100 to 120 beats per minute, approximately two compressions per second. After 30 compressions, allow the chest to rise fully.

Administering Rescue Breaths

Reopen the airway using the head tilt and chin lift. Pinch the nostrils shut, and deliver two quick breaths, each about a second long. Immediately resume chest compressions after the breaths.

CPR Cycle

Continue the cycle of 30 compressions followed by two breaths. Keep this up as long as you are physically able to. If another person is present, take turns every two minutes to prevent fatigue.

Utilising an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible. If not, emergency responders will bring one.

When Help Arrives

Communicate clearly what actions you have taken, including checking for danger, responsiveness, breathing, and your CPR efforts with detailed compression and breath rates.

Importance of Proper CPR

Proper execution of CPR is crucial for the person's survival chances. Incorrect or absent CPR can significantly reduce survival chances.