How to Perform CPR

CPR: A Simple Guide to Saving a Life

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, can save lives. It helps someone who's stopped breathing or had a heart attack. Knowing CPR could mean the difference between life and death. This guide gives you the basics – it’s like a quick first-aid course for your heart!

Why Learn CPR? It's a Superpower!

Learning CPR is huge. You could save a life. The faster CPR starts, the better the chances of survival. It's about being ready to help – for yourself and your community. Think of it as having a really important skill in your back pocket.

Before You Start: Check, Check, Check!

First, check if the person's okay. Gently shake them and ask, "Are you okay?" No response and not breathing normally? Immediately call emergency services (like 911).

1. Check for Responsiveness: Tap their shoulders and shout.
2. Check Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing for about 10 seconds. Look for their chest rising and falling.
3. Call 911 (or your local number): Call for help! If you're alone, do two minutes of CPR first, then call.

Hands-Only CPR: The Easy Way

For most adults, hands-only CPR is best. It's just chest compressions. No rescue breaths needed! But if you know how to do rescue breaths, go to the next section.

1. Hand Placement: Center of the chest, between the nipples. Interlock your fingers, keep your arms straight.
2. How Deep?: Push hard and fast! At least 2 inches (5 cm) deep for adults. A bit less for kids and babies.
3. How Fast?: Aim for 100-120 compressions per minute. Think of the beat of "Stayin' Alive" – that's about right!
4. Let the Chest Recoil: Don't lean on the chest between compressions; let it come back up.
5. Keep Going: Minimize interruptions. Only stop to check for a pulse or switch rescuers.

Rescue Breaths: If You're Comfortable

Only do rescue breaths if you're trained. Chest compressions are the priority, especially if you're not sure about rescue breaths.

1. Tilt Head, Lift Chin: Gently tilt their head back and lift their chin to open the airway.
2. Pinch Nose, Seal Mouth: Pinch their nose, seal your mouth over theirs.
3. Give Breaths: Two slow breaths, about one second each. Watch for their chest to rise.
4. Continue CPR: 30 compressions, then 2 breaths. Repeat.

CPR for Little Ones: Important Differences

CPR for babies and kids is different. Hand placement and how deep you push changes with their size. Take a proper CPR class to learn this correctly.

Babies (under 1): Use two fingers for chest compressions. Cover both their nose and mouth for rescue breaths.

Children (1 to puberty): Use one or two hands, depending on their size. Cover their mouth and nose for rescue breaths.

When to Stop

Keep going until:

• Emergency help arrives.
• You're too tired.
• It becomes unsafe.
• They start breathing normally or wake up.

Get Trained! It's Worth It

This guide helps, but a real CPR class is essential. You'll practice, learn variations, and gain confidence. It's an investment in yourself and the ability to help others. Think of it as an incredibly valuable skill to have.

Find a Class!

The Red Cross, American Heart Association, and other groups offer classes. Find one near you! Regular refresher courses are a good idea to keep your skills sharp.

In Conclusion: Be Prepared

Knowing CPR is powerful. You can save a life. Remember the steps, call for help, and get trained! You'll be ready to help in an emergency. It's a skill that could make all the difference.