Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a procedure performed in an emergency when the heart stops, with the goal of prolonging circulatory and lung function.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) consists of the use of chest compressions and artificial ventilation to maintain circulatory flow and oxygenation during cardiac arrest (see the images below). Although survival rates and neurologic outcomes are poor for patients with cardiac arrest, early appropriate resuscitation—involving early defibrillation—and appropriate implementation of post–cardiac arrest care lead to improved survival and neurologic outcomes.
What are the steps in cardiopulmonary resuscitation?
Check for responsiveness by gently shaking the victim and shouting, "Are you OK?"
If the victim is unresponsive, immediately call 911. If an automated external defibrillator is available, bring it to the person's side.
The moment an AED becomes available, IMMEDIATELY press the "On" button. The AED will speak to you. Follow the directions given.
Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, right between the nipples. Place the heel of your other hand on top of the first hand. Lock your elbows and position your shoulders directly above your hands. Press down on the chest with enough force to move the breastbone down about 2 inches. Compress the chest 30 times, at a rate of at least 100 times per minute.
Provide two rescue breaths. Place you mouth around the victim's mouth; pinch off the nose and administer two slow breaths. Make sure the chest rises with each breath.
Repeat the 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives.