How to Perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, better known as CPR, is an emergency life-saving technique that is used when a person's heart stops beating. This guide will provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly perform CPR.

Step 1: Check Consciousness and Breathing

First, make sure the person is conscious and breathing. Yell and gently shake the person to see if they respond. If there is no response, call emergency services immediately or have someone else do it for you.

Step 2: Position the Person

Lay the person on their back on a firm, flat surface, such as the floor. Kneel next to your chest.

Step 3: Start Chest Compressions

Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest, just above the sternum. Place the base of the other hand on top of the first hand. Keep your elbows straight and align your shoulders directly above your hands. Use your body weight to press your chest down at least 5 cm, but no more than 6 cm. Release the pressure, but don't remove your hands from the person's chest. Do this at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.

Step 4: Give Rescue Breaths

After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. First, open the person's airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. Then pinch the nose closed. Make a complete seal over the person's mouth and blow to make the chest rise. Give two of these rescue breaths.

Step 5: Continue CPR

Continue to alternate between 30 compressions and two rescue breaths until the person starts breathing or until medical professionals take over.

Conclusion

CPR is a vital skill that can save lives in an emergency. While this guide provides the basic steps to perform CPR, it is highly recommended that you take a CPR training course to learn and practice these skills under the guidance of a professional.